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St. Patrick’s Day is already right around the corner, which means it’s time to scour your wardrobe for any remnants of green clothing you might have from previous years. If you’re a little low on the green clothing, or you simply want to take things to a new level this year, then you might want to check out these ten tips. These tips will help you find the perfect solution to your St. Patrick’s Day attire without forcing you to spend a fortune on a new item that you’re probably only going to wear once. So, keep things stylish this year with one or more of these fashion-savvy tips.

1. DIY Leprechaun Hat
One of the first things that many people think of when St. Patrick’s Day comes to mind is leprechauns. These mythical creatures have become a huge part of the holiday, which might inspire you to show off your love for them. Luckily, you don’t have to spend a fortune on a green top hat to show how much you love leprechauns. There’s actually a variety of different hats that you can make with supplies that you find at home, like paper, tape and old fabric. May it be the classic top hat inspired design or a more low-key bowler hat style, there are plenty of tutorials to check out online. These tips are great for preparing children for the holiday too and might even become a family craft project that they will look forward to every year. You can even try out different tutorials for each member of the family to see which tutorials you like the best.

2. Refurbish Shirt
If you don’t have a green shirt in your wardrobe and you’re in a pinch, then don’t hesitate to refurbish one of those old white shirts you have collecting space. You can do this in so many different ways so make sure to have a little fun with it. One of the first ways to make a bold statement is to take an old shirt and dye it green. You can do this with special clothing dyes or simply place it in a pitcher of green Kool-Aid. There’s no doubt that you’ll make a statement with your green shirt. If you’re feeling like you’d like a little more detail in your style, then grab some fabric paint or a permanent marker and have some fun. You can even print out a stencil to make the shirt look more professional.

3. Makeup
Clothes aren’t your only option on St. Patrick’s Day. If you’re feeling creative, then you might want to showcase the holiday with your makeup. You can keep it simple by using items that feature green, gold and glitter. However, if you’re looking to make a bold statement then you might want to check out some ideas online. There’s lots of tutorials that can help you figure out some fun tricks. You can also use your own imagination. Many people have created bold green styles that pay homage to their Celtic roots, while others choose a more modern style with rainbows and pots of gold. No matter what you choose to do, you’re certain to get some compliments.

4. Clovers
A simple way to show your love for the holiday without going overboard is to add a clover or two to your attire. You can easily pick a clover from your yard or local park to help keep this idea as frugal as possible. If you don’t have access to a clover in your area, then you should be able to find one at a local department store or craft store. Some vendors might even sell them specifically for the holiday. If purchasing isn’t option, then don’t give up. This beautiful piece of Mother Nature can be made out of paper or fabric for a more durable look that people will love. No matter what kind of clover you obtain, it can be pinned on your shirt or blouse, placed on a hat or even put in your hair for a festive style.

5. Costume
Some people really get into St. Patrick’s Day. If you don’t want to settle for anything less than spectacular, then make yourself a costume for the holiday. You can dress up as a leprechaun, a pot of gold, St. Patrick, himself, or anything else that makes you think St. Patrick’s Day. The great thing about St. Patrick’s Day is you can make many costumes from items you already have at home. Many of the costume items can even be crafted out of paper to make life even cheaper. Of course, if you have an old Halloween costume lying around then this can work in your favor too. Try to have a little fun with the costume to make your holiday even more memorable.

6. Stick-Ons
Another easy solution to St. Patrick’s Day attire is a simple stick-on. This is a great item for when you’re in a pinch. For instance, if it totally slips your mind that St. Patrick’s Day has finally arrived, then you can print out a stick-on and place it on your clothes to help you from getting pinched. Stick-ons can be found all over the internet, so you can find a cool look that suits your personal style. However, if you don’t want to print then you can probably find stickers or even buttons at your local department or craft store. Sure, you probably won’t look as festive with a stick-on, but you won’t get pinched either. Plus, people might really admire your fun slogan of choice.

7. Accessorize
Your green item doesn’t have to be in your clothing. You can always use your favorite accessories to show off your touch of green for the day. For instance, clover earrings or even a Claddagh ring would add a nice touch to your St. Patrick’s Day style. If you don’t have Celtic jewelry, then you can still look cool. Try adding a green scarf or one covered in lucky clovers, pots of gold and more to your favorite look. You can also add a festive tie to your business style to make the right statement. Socks are another great option. Shoe laces can add some fun to your look too. No matter what you choose, your style will stand out with the right accessories.

8. Utilize Wardrobe
There’s no reason to go out and buy something new for St. Patrick’s Day if you don’t have to. Chances are you have something in your wardrobe with a touch of green on it. Perhaps, it’s a holiday shirt from years ago, or a shirt involving your favorite sports team. No matter what it is, try to use it in your attire for the day. You will be surprised how well you can utilize items you already have that you may have thought you’d never wear again. Not only will this save you money, but it will give you the opportunity to wear a new look. You might even consider using this time to create a crazy style that will turn heads for the day.

9. Shop Thrift Stores
Of course, there are some wardrobes that simply don’t have any green in them. If you’re looking for something to wear that is pretty cheap then you might want to check out your local thrift store. Shopping for clothes at a thrift store can really be a treasure hunt. Not only are you sure to find cool clothes that are green, but you might find a few designs that you’d want to use in your every day life. You may even come across St. Patrick Day specific clothes that can add fun to your day. Don’t forget to look past the everyday clothing items too, as you may be able to find green jewelry, belts and other accessories to make the outfit look well put together.

10. Clearance Buys
If you don’t mind going without this year, then you might want to hold off on shopping for holiday attire right now. The day after St. Patrick’s Day, you will see all of the clothes hit the clearance rack. This will give you an advantage for next year when it’s time to celebrate the holiday. Of course, if you are willing to risk going out without green clothes then you can always see if there are any sales on items the day of the holiday. You may find that party supplies will slash the prices on props and other items just before the holiday, so you might want to grab these deals while you can.

Dressing up for St. Patrick’s Day can be a lot of fun. These ten tips will help you choose a wide variety of ways to show off your green style without spending a fortune. This will allow you to have some fun with the holiday instead of worrying about your budget.

2018 is a great time to help make the planet a better place to live. One of the best ways to do this is to support the wild life in your area and around the world. World Wild Life Day is a great time to work on improving the world for the animals that we share it with. Unfortunately, many of the things we can do to help the animals can cost an arm and a leg. This should be no cause for worry though, as there are so many little things that you can do that will leave the world a better place. So, on March 3, you might want to start practicing some of these ideas, so you can protect wild life and improve on the world’s overall quality.

1. Monitor Garbage
Garbage is one of the biggest problems in the world right now. There is so much pollution in the world that it is causing many animals to become displaced or their habitat to become a danger zone. One of the first things you can do is begin with your plastic consumption. If you can, try to avoid using plastic bags at the grocery store as these often end up in oceans and aren’t biodegradable. You should also look for trash bags that are biodegradable, so you don’t have to create more long-term waste than necessary. Creating a compost is another way to help cut back on the waste in the world and will benefit local plant life. Apart from that, you should always cut plastic rings, so they won’t get wrapped around animals and marine life. There are other ways to help in your own area too. For instance, you should always secure your trash and recycling can so that local animals can’t get into them.

2. Plant Local Species
More often than not, local species end up taking the back burner because people would rather have roses and other plants that are considered to be beautiful in their yard. Although these plants are nice to have, you might want to consider adding a few plants from the local species too. Local plants often help the wildlife in the area as they provide food and shelter. Some of these species are also going extinct, so by planting them you’re doing your part to not only save the species but help preserve the natural habitat of the region.

3. Visit Sanctuaries and Reserves
There are a lot of sanctuaries and reserves in the world, which are designed to help preserve habitats and keep animal life thriving. These sanctuaries and reserves often charge a small fee or ask for a donation when people pay them a visit. This can help keep the area funded so that the animals can keep their land and slowly move off of the endangered list. The areas should be entirely respected when visited though, so make sure you leave all potential litter in your car. You may not know you are even in a reserve at times as there are places on the beach that are designated for turtles, birds and more. So, always be aware of your surroundings when you’re in an area that might host an endangered or at-risk species.

4. Learn About Endangered Animals
One huge thing you can do is actually sit down and learn about the endangered species in your area and around the world. Knowledge is power and simply knowing which animals you need to support can do a lot for the world around you. Of course, you should also spread this information to others, which is certain to help make the knowledge widely available. If everyone is willing to do their part to learn and respect the animals, then we are one step closer to helping prevent extinction. It is especially important to learn about the species in your area though as this is where you can do the most good.

5. Consider Donating
Money is a great way to help out with endangered animals, but you don’t have to give thousands to make a difference. You might want to put in a little research to see which animal or program you would like to donate to. Once you have decided then give a small amount, you can always come back later to give more. Make sure you hold onto your receipt too as you can use it to deduct taxes later on. There are some programs that allow you to “adopt” an animal. This doesn’t mean you get to bring the animal home, but the money you send each month goes to support the animal and others. This is a great way to feel more connected with the program, so you will feel as if your money is making a change in the world.

6. Avoid Possessions Made with Animals
Unfortunately, there are still many products on the market that use animal parts to make big money. Ivory, for instance, is one of the most popular items that has put many animals on the endangered special list. You can find ivory in all sorts of things, including pianos and jewelry. The fur trade is still a major problem too. Tigers, panda bears, and more are constantly poached to have their furs sold to anyone willing to pay the high price. Of course, there are other animals that are killed for their skin too, so if you’re buying fur then you’re helping support poachers in their endeavors. Another popular novelty item that you should avoid is rabbits’ feet. Although these aren’t as popular as they once were, they are still a business that requires the needless slaughter of many animals.

7. Slow Down
Believe it or not, but your car can be one of the biggest enemies to those on the endangered list in your area. Many people don’t think twice about going fast in certain areas, but if you’re not careful then you might end up hitting an animal on the list. If you’re driving in an area that isn’t habited, then chances are an animal might stop and cross the street at any given moment. Make sure you slow down in these areas and be aware of what’s going on around you. There have been many cases when even a bald eagle has been hit by a vehicle, so you never know what might come your way when you’re moving fast.

8. Research Companies
There are still so many companies that use animals to research the products that we use every single day. Cosmetics, hair products and dental hygiene products are some of the worst culprits out there. Worst of all, it isn’t always clear on the label which products are tested on animals. So, if you have a new brand that you would love to try out, then make sure to do some research on them first. Usually, company websites will give basic information on their products, but if you feel like they’re hiding something then check out an organization that fights for animal rights. These organizations are usually fast to jump on a company if they are testing on animals. If you avoid these brands, they might get the message and stop testing on animals.

9. Be Green
Living a greener life is another simple way to do your part to help the animals out. On the top of your list should be conserving energy and water. There are many simple ways to do this, like skipping showers and cutting your showers back to just a few minutes. You might also want to consider black out evenings to conserve energy. Shopping for products that conserve energy are also very important. You should always recycle when you can too. This is very important for the environment and will help cut back on your carbon footprint while allowing animals to keep their natural habits litter free. Cutting back on driving can also help the planet and animals out. So, this year, you might decide to dedicate your time to making your home and life a lot greener.

10. Volunteer
Helping out the animals can be as simple as volunteering to help out at a place that cares for animals. This can be a zoo, aquarium, conservation, animal shelter or more. You can do just about anything that you’re able too. You might be asked to clean up after animals, feed them, pick up garbage or even assist a veterinarian. No matter what you choose to do, it will be making a difference in the life of animals that need a little assistance. Of course, you don’t just have to volunteer at a venue. You can clean up a park, plant trees or other natural species and so much more. This activity could also be as simple as setting out water for animals or even making a cold weather shelter. No matter what you do, the world will be a better place because of it.

World Wildlife Day is the perfect time to show your appreciation for the animals that we share the world with. May it be helping out a stray cat or doing your part to stop ivory sales, your help won’t go unnoticed. These ten ideas should give you an idea as to what you can do to help out without blowing your household’s budget.

The month of March is filled with exciting days designed to make your employees feel amazing. For instance, on March the 2 we observe Employee Appreciation Day as well as Salesperson day, and on March the 3 Caregiver Day is celebrated. With these three holidays designed to make many employees feel appreciated, you may want to think of a few ways to celebrate with your own employees. These ten ideas will allow you to do this frugally, so you can still stay on top of your budget. Best of all, these ten tips will even help boost morale, so your employees will feel better about working for you. These tips might even bring a harmony to your work place that will improve production and comradery.

1. Host a Casual Day
One of the easiest ways to help employees feel great is to offer them a day where they can just be themselves. The best way to do this is to offer a casual day, so that employees can show off who they are when they aren’t in stiff work clothes. A casual day shows you value your employees as individuals and not just as employees, which will help make your employees feel better about their position in the workplace. Apart from that, it also shows that you care about their comfort. You can implement this event as a weekly, monthly or simply an annual occasion. Either way, it will help build morale in the workplace that will make everyone feel like a greater part of a team.

2. Throw a Dinner Party
Another great way to show your employees that you care is by throwing a dinner party. It doesn’t matter if you treat at a restaurant or you take a more frugal route by cooking at home, this occasion can help make your employees feel united. A dinner party allows everyone to get together and talk about things that aren’t work involved. This will help everyone get to know each other on a deeper level, which will allow them to grow closer as they work together. Apart from that, it gives you time to get to know the people that are working for you. You might get together questions to ask your employees. For instance, knowing about their family can be a great way to show you care about their life. You might also invest time in learning about their goals and dreams. This might allow you to help them work towards some of the goals within the workplace. As everyone gets to know each other, the office will be a bit more comfortable. If you don’t want to host a meal at dinner time, then opt for a lunch instead. This will allow employees to attend during work hours, opposed to taking time out of their free time.

3. Thank You Cards
One of the simplest and cheapest things to do for your employees is to give them a thank you card. This doesn’t mean to send out a mass-produced card to everyone. Instead, take your time to fill out the cards. Tell each employee why they are valued. This will ensure that your employees will see that you do recognize what they bring to the table at work. Plus, it will show that you do pay attention to individual efforts instead of just the big picture at work. When polled, many employees actually got more out of a personalized note or gift than they did a grandeur gesture. So, you might keep this in mind when you’re trying to keep things cheap while showing some appreciation.

4. Bring Treats to Work
It’s the simple things in life that make work bearable and maybe even fun. One way to give your employees something simple to enjoy is to bring in little treats to work. For instance, you might bring donuts one morning when you know your employees are going to have a rough day. In order to say thank you for the hard work, you may treat them to a lunch of pizzas delivered to the office. When there is a birthday or celebration in order then bring some cupcakes to help make the occasion great. You may even want to make it a monthly treat to bring in some catered foods for employees, so they don’t have to spend money on lunch that day. Whatever you choose to bring, employees will see that you care.

5. Give an Early Day
Getting burned out is unfortunately a major part of today’s society. It weighs heavily on employees when they have to spend all of their time and energy at the office. So, you might give them an early day every now and then. Of course, this doesn’t have to be on days when production is off the charts. Nor do you have to give everyone the same day. You can easily stagger days so that one or two employees can enjoy an early day every once in a while. Your employees will get to enjoy more of the things they love this way, which will help prevent them from getting burned out. If you don’t want to give early days for no reason, then consider being flexible with employees. For instance, you might release parents early to allow them to attend one of their child’s events. You can do the same for non-parents that may have conventions, sales or concerts they want to attend.

6. Consider Benefit Programs
Another way to take on the challenge of showing your employees appreciation is to give them more benefits at work. One of the best new programs is to set up workout programs at the workplace. You might hire an instructor for yoga one month and a personal trainer for weight lifting the next. Employees can feel free to take a break from work and workout to blow off some steam. Another great aspect is to set up an area where employees can choose their own workouts. For instance, if you have an employee that knows a lot about a dance program then have that employee host a short class. It will save you money and will allow employees to take a break. You may even want to create a sports team for your workplace. These teams have been known to bring comradery to the workplace and help employees blow off steam. Another great option is to allow employees to create clubs. For instance, let them get together to knit or draw for a short period. These breaks have been proven to help with productivity.

7. Employee of the Month
One timeless way to show that you are paying attention to your employees is to offer an employee of the month award. This can be as simple as a certificate, but you can also throw in a gift card or other reward if you want to make it even more rewarding. Employees will work hard to achieve this award and will see that they are being recognized for everything that they do. Without a doubt, these awards help boost morale too, which is always great for productivity. Awards like this also look great on resumes, so when you present this award to your employees, you might also offer a letter of recommendation to show you see your employees strong points.

8. One-on-One Time
One of the main problems in the work place is that employees don’t have a connection with their employers. Sometimes, employees never even speak to their employer after the initial interview period. So, in order to show you care, you might offer some one-on-one time with your employees. Stop to chat with someone when you head to the water fountain or call your employee into the office to have a chat. You might ask them to voice their concerns about the work place or simply have them talk about their life. Offering this form of socialization can help build relationships and make life easier at the office. Plus, it will show you the areas that you’re thriving in and those that you need to put a little more effort into.

9. Set up Refreshments
Another simple way to show that you care about your employees’ needs is to set up a refreshment area. Rather than just providing everyone with water, you might set out coffee, tea and other simple drinks for employees to enjoy. Snacks are also an added bonus that can help your employees feel like they can power through their afternoon down periods. Light snacks, like fruit and energy bars, won’t cost you a bundle. Some modern businesses are even setting up smoothie and salad bars for their employees, so they always have healthy food to choose from.

10. Holiday Gifts
Many employers enjoy giving out holiday gifts to their employees. However, some stay away from this trend because it can cost a fortune. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to make a great statement though. For instance, you can easily purchase your employees something small that still has personal value. One example would be a soap gift set that features a scent you know the employee enjoys. A gift basket full of snacks is another great option and is simple to do if you know your employees. People will notice the personal touches, which will make them feel like a valuable part of your team.

It is important to let your employees know they’re not just someone that shares a workplace with you. Showing your appreciation can really change the dynamic of the office. These ten ideas will show your employees that you care about them and the hard work they do for you. So, you might want to utilize a couple to help your employees feel great, especially during the upcoming employee appreciation holidays.

As the years pass, music in the school system becomes even more endangered. Since this program doesn’t bring in as much money as athletics, it often gets cut along with the art programs in many schools. This can be a huge problem for our young minds, which is why so many people are standing up to try to keep music in public schools for good. March is actually Keep Music in School Months, which makes it a great time to stand up and do your part to help keep these programs thriving. This doesn’t mean that you have to spend a small fortune to do this. Rather, there are many frugal ways to help keep music in schools that actually won’t cut into your time or budget. So, check out these ten tips so you can be ready to make the most out of Music in School Month.

1. Volunteer
One of the best ways to do your part doesn’t require any money at all. All you have to do is volunteer your time to a school in need. Most schools could really use a helper in the classroom and on field trips. More often than not, programs end up getting cut because they can’t hire enough people to keep the program thriving. If more people stepped in to do the work for free then they would be able to host more band trips, teach more students and maybe even put on a concert or two. You don’t have to be talented in regards to music either as many schools just need someone to help keep an eye on the large number of students. However, if you do have some musical expertise then it won’t hurt to let your school know you can help in other ways too. You may be asked to help tutor students that are struggling with their instrument, or, if you’re qualified to be a substitute, you may be asked to step in from time to time to help when a teacher is ill or is supervising students in a competition.

2. Set Up Fundraisers
Fundraisers are a tried and true way to help out struggling programs in the school. The best thing is, you can base your fundraiser around things that you enjoy doing. For instance, if you’re a baker then host a bake sale. You may even send out flyers to other parents to see if anyone else will donate something to go towards the school’s music program. If you like to be active and the weather is nice then host a car wash. This usually has a great turn out and the kids in the music program can lend a helping hand too. You might even consider selling your own things to give a little bit more to the program. Another great idea is to call for the community to donate old instruments. These can even be fixed up by the community if you know the right people. The options are endless, so have a little fun with it.

3. Write Legislators
Our government puts the power in the hands of the people, which means it is up to you to express your need for something. If the schoolboard is planning on cutting funds to your music program, then don’t sit by idly. Look up your legislators’ offices and write to them or even call them. Don’t give in after a few unanswered letters either. Instead, keep writing to make sure your voice is heard. You should also work to inspire others to do the same thing. The more the issue is brought to the eye of the legislators, the more likely they will take the time our of their day to address the issue. It might even allow you to save the music program in your area.

4. Host a Rally
Getting attention to the issue is one of the best ways to get help. If you’re looking to make a scene to get noticed, then hosting a peaceful rally is one of the best things to do. To begin with you, you will need to get permission from the school if you plan on hosting there, if not then you need the permission of the city to host the rally in public areas. Once you have this, then you can start by encouraging teachers, students and parents to participate. Gather everyone together to make signs and come up with cute slogans to chant. Once everything is organized, get a hold of the local media so you will get even more coverage. Even if your rally doesn’t get the attention of the school board, it might draw in donations and sponsors that are much needed.

5. Look for Sponsorship
Sponsorship is another great way to save a school’s music program. Every year, there are many competitions to help a school get sponsored. If your school isn’t quite ready for this exposure, then don’t fret. There are actually many great businesses, foundations and individuals willing to sponsor without a competition. All you need to do is apply for these sponsorships to be considered. You might begin your journey by looking locally. You may not find a sponsor for the full program, but every little bit does help. After searching locally, move your search on to statewide sponsorships and then national sponsorships. You might end up having to place advertisements in your programs or on your uniforms, but it will be worth it to have the kids enjoying music again.

6. Support Programs
Believe it or not, but there are many national programs that are designed to help give schools around the country the support they need to be successful. For instance, when you walk intp Hot Topic, you can give a donation simply by rounding your purchase up to the next dollar. Another option is to work with VH1s Save the Music Program. This program has been around for years and is designed to give a new school each year funding. There’s also programs like the Mr. Holland’s Opus fund, which helps schools to keep music alive. Some programs even cater to certain groups, like the Girls Rock Foundation. There are so many to choose from, so make sure you do your research to see which one works best for you.

7. Donate Supplies
One of the main things schools need is supplies to keep their programs growing strong. In some areas, students can’t afford to purchase or rent instruments. With a low turnout in this regard many programs have no choice but to end funding as there simply aren’t enough students to make it worthwhile. By donating your old instruments, you can give a child the chance to play the music they love despite their financial situation. Apart from that, sheet music is also a great thing to donate. May it be blank sheets for competition, or music for students to practice on, every little bit can go a long way. Accessories for keeping up with the instruments is also great, especially when it comes to reeds or even instrument cleaners. Anything you give can help make a child’s dreams come true.

8. Encourage Participation
Participation is a huge factor when it comes to the music program. The more children that are involved in the program, the more funding they are likely to get. If you have a low turn out in band, orchestra and choir then it will be hard to convince the education board to hand over funds to keep it going. One way to help avoid this is to get the word out about the program. Pass out flyers at the school to encourage students to join. Many students don’t know it’s an option for them, so they don’t bother signing up. You might also want to consider starting music clubs. This will peak interest and make students feel like they belong in the music program. You might also inspire the school to create advertisements for the program which can be played in the morning announcements. It can also be fun to have the band perform for the students to help show the fun everyone has while playing. There’s no limit as to how far you can go to help students see the program is a great concept.

9. Join PTA
If you’re a parent wanting to put up the fight for the music program in your school, then joining the PTA is one of the best things you can possibly do. This is where many of the school’s decisions are made, so if the PTA doesn’t believe the music program is an asset then you might have some trouble getting the school board on your side. While you’re at your PTA meetings make sure you keep everyone informed as to what the benefit of music is in the school. There are lots of brochures you can download to back up your debates too, which should help everyone see that you are fighting for their children’s best interests.

10. Start at Home
Of course, one of the best places to begin your mission is your own home. It is important that your children are able to see how important music in for their brain development and creativity. With your child already interested in music, they may be willing to join the music program at school. This enthusiasm can be contagious and might have his or her friends wanting to follow suit. Even if this isn’t the case, having your child engrossed in a world of music will help them grow to be well-rounded individuals with plenty of outlets to help them lead happy lives.

For years, music has been in jeopardy of being cut in the public school system. These tips will help you fight for the school’s rights to have such programs thriving in their schools. It might take a bit of a battle, but if you’re successful then you will have done your child and many others a huge favor.

Although the groundhog has called for 6 more weeks of winter, it doesn’t mean that you can’t get in a little prep work before spring finally does arrive. Prepping for spring can really help you get a head start on things, which might even save you some money in the long run. Plus, doing a little spring prep work can help you get out of your winter funk, which should lift your spirits and make you feel excited about the next season’s arrival. These ten ideas will give you a few simple things to do around the house that will certainly prepare you for the demands that spring brings to the table.

1. Start your Seedlings
Working in the garden can be one of the highlights of spring. However, getting things started always takes a lot of time and patience. One way to get a jump on your garden is to plant seedlings that can be cared for indoors until spring arrives. Many gardeners use this technique because it allows them to enjoy beautiful flowers and delicious produce much faster than planting in early spring. Working with seedlings can also lead to the success of your plants as they will be past the danger zone when you finally place them outdoors. You can use many things to plant your seedlings too, which will help save you money. For instance, your old K-Cups can be recycled to store your little seedlings. You can also go the biodegradable route by using things like lemon peels or toilet paper rolls to get your seedlings going. With a little water and some sunlight, your seeds should be ready to plant as soon as the nightly freezes end.

2. Stock Up On Cleaning Supplies
Spring cleaning is something that most people are on board with. However, during the season some stores actually hike up the prices of supplies because they know people will pay the price. Not to mention, it is already flu season so many people are constantly buying disinfectants to keep their family safe. This can lead to a lack of supplies, which might make you put off your cleaning tasks. This can even lead you to forget them later on down the line, which could cause you some pricey problems. If you shop early, you may be able to find your supplies on sale or even use coupons to cut down on the price. Plus, you’ll be ready to tackle any clean up job that comes your way.

3. Prep Your Yard
As soon as the snow stops, it is time to get your lawn ready for spring time. One of the first things you should do is pick up all of the litter, leaves, sticks and other debris that may have accumulated in the yard while the weather was too cold for yard work. Once you have this complete, you might start by trimming your trees and shrubs to give them a fresh start in the new season. If weeds have already begun to pop up, then you may want to begin to pull them. Another important thing to do is rake the grass. This helps wake up the soil as well as the grass that is already there. All of these tasks will set you up for success when you begin working on landscaping.

4. Examine the Roof
During the winter, the roof can take a lot of damage. If snow doesn’t flow down properly, it can even cause your roof to cave in. So, when the weather is suitable, you might want to safely get on the roof and see if there is any damage that needs to be taken care of. If there is, getting it taken care of right away is your best option. Since spring tends to be a rainy season, it is important to get busy before the weather brings leaks into the house. While you’re analyzing the state of the roof, you might also want to take time to give the gutters a look over. Many will need to be cleaned out before the rains arrive to help prevent further damage to the home.

5. Book Spring Break Plans
If you love to get out of town for Spring Break, then now is the time to get a jump start on your plans. If you wait too long to book your plans, then you’re going to run into high prices and hotels that simply don’t have vacancies leftover. Planning out your Spring Break options might also help you feel like vacation is a bit closer. This can be important after being trapped indoors for so long as it is nice to be able to think of the fresh and warm air. Plus, knowing exactly what you want to do on your trip will help you find better deals on your activities and might even allow you to find restaurants that suit your budget. With your Spring Break all planned out, you should be able to enjoy your spring adventure and won’t feel as stressed in the early season.

6. Prep for Allergies
Without a doubt, Spring is one of the worst times to deal with allergies. Pollen and mold counts are both up, which causes many people to feel absolutely miserable. The first step in dealing with spring allergies is to see your doctor. Some will give you allergy tests to help you pinpoint exactly what you’re allergic too, which will help you avoid the triggers. You may even be given a prescription to help cut back on the symptoms of the allergies. Another great move to make is to purchase cleaning supplies that will help you get rid of the allergens in the home. You should also change out your air filters and consider buying an air purifier to help out. With the proper steps taken, your spring won’t be filled with sneezing.

7. Make Room For Clothing Storage
As the weather begins to warm up slightly, you might start moving some of your heavier clothes into storage. This is also a great time to separate what you will be using next year, what needs to be stored for hand-me-downs and what items should be donated. This step alone will help you save money in the upcoming years and will even allow you to know what you’re in the market to buy when winter clearance begins. Properly storing your clothes is also important. You might want to invest in plastic bins to help keep moths and other bugs out of your clothing. You can even condense the amount of space they take up by placing them in a bag and sucking the air out. With your winter wear out of the way, cleaning your closet space will be much easier.

8. Purchase New Shoes
Spring is a great time to toss out your old shoes and buy new ones. Keeping new shoes in the home can be important for your feet’s overall health as old shoes often don’t offer the shock resistance we need. They may also be growing fungus from constant use. In the spring, you can find lots of great sales on shoes, which will help you save money too. Having a decent pair of shoes will encourage you to go out and walk, run and get more exercise overall. This will make spring time healthier than ever for you. You should look for footwear with plenty of ventilation though, as this will ensure your feet will be ready for summer and autumn too.

9. Stock Up on Winter Produce
All of your favorite winter treats are about to look a lot less appealing and a lot more expensive. So, you might want to consider stocking up on winter produce while you can. Many winter items can be transformed into delicious jams, which will help satisfy your family throughout the year. Other items can be cut and frozen to use in smoothies or other recipes. Vegetables are also great items to stock up on. You can pickle a lot of winter vegetables, to ensure you have delicious snacks all year. Of course, cutting and freezing the items are also a popular choice. This will help improve the nutrients your family gets throughout the year and will help you make some of your favorite comfort foods without spending a fortune.

10. Tidy Outdoor Furniture
Spring means spending more time with family and friends outside. So, it might be time to tend to the furniture you have. First of all, you should hose down the furniture to get rid of dust and dirt that may have occurred while in storage or during the last season of use. Once you have this taken care of, you might want to add sealant to the furniture to get you through the rainy periods. If the furniture looks worn, then you may also add a new coat of paint before doing the sealant. Fabrics can be washed and refurbished if need be. There is also a fabric sealant that can help keep your fabrics waterproof and ready to take on any damage that occurs.

These tips should have you excited about spring and ready to take on the day. Without a doubt, you will have fun getting everything ready to make the next season amazing. So, don’t let the extra-long winter get you down, as you can make sure you enjoy spring from the very beginning this year.

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, which makes it a great time to schedule your child a check up or work to improve their dental hygiene. Of course, many people associate dental care with high prices, which could detour you from wanting to partake in the month. Luckily, there’s actually quite a few ways you can cut back on the amount of money you spend when it comes to helping your child maintain dental health. These ten tips will allow you to show your children the ropes when it comes to a healthy dental hygiene lifestyle while helping to keep money in your pocket. So, this month, find the right ways to help keep your children’s mouth healthy to ensure you don’t have to deal with dental work in the future.

1. Enforce Habits Early
One of the best tools you can use to help prevent high costs in dental care is to help your children learn proper dental hygiene at an early age. One of the first things to teach your child is how to efficiently brush their teeth and to encourage them to do it twice a day. This will help cut back on gum disease as well as cavities. When children are old enough, they should also work on flossing to prevent cavities from popping up in between the teeth. Of course, it can be hard to start these habits off right, so try to make it a game when you can. Your children will fall in love with brushing, which should get them in the right mindset to do it every night. When you begin these habits, your child will have it set in their minds to do it every night, thus helping them lead healthier lives with less dental work in their future.

2. Restrict Sweets
Without a doubt, children love to satisfy their sweet tooth, which can wreak havoc on their teeth. If you can, try to limit your child’s sweets intake, so they can prevent cavities in the future and develop healthier eating habits. Many parents tend to allow children to have sweets on a daily basis as snacks or quick treats. This can really harm your child’s teeth, especially if it is happening multiple times a day. One of the best habits to get into is offering fruit to satisfy the sweet craving. Most fruits are great for the teeth and will allow you to give your child more nutrients that they need to grow up healthy.

3. Eat Healthy
Apart from cutting down on sweets, you need to try to make an effort to get your children to eat healthier on a daily basis. This might require you to change the way the whole family eats in order to provide a solid example of how you should eat every day. Apart from providing the body with proper vitamins and nutrients, eating healthy actually builds strong teeth. Believe it or not but eating raw vegetables can actually get rid of plaque on the teeth, which helps to prevent decay that causes cavities. Drinking water will also help with dental problems and bad breath, as bacteria tends to grow in a dry mouth. Eating and drinking food with calcium will also help build strong enamel, which protects the tooth from decay. Cutting back on drinks with caffeine, especially soda, can even make your teeth whiter.

4. Get Insured
Although dental insurance often means spending more money, it can help save you a whole lot more than you would expect. Simply getting a cleaning and check up can cost around $100 depending on the dentist, which is a dental visit that is usually covered twice a year with most dental insurance. You can also get hit with some pretty hefty bills if you need dental work and don’t have insurance. It is always better to be safe than sorry too, as it would be a huge hit on your budget if a child chipped a tooth or ended up needing braces or a retainer. So, do yourself a favor and look into dental insurance if you don’t already have it.

5. Avoid Extra Procedures
One of the major problems with the dental world is many dentists try to push too much work on their patients. For instance, you don’t actually need x-rays on your teeth every time you pay a visit to the dentist. This is especially the case if your x-rays have always come back as healthy and if you are a fully-grown adult. Many other procedures are often unnecessary, so if you think you’re being taken for a ride then get a second opinion or talk to a dentist online. You might be surprised as to how much you can save simply by knowing what should be happening with your dental visits and your children’s.

6. Research Products
When it comes to shopping for your kids’ dental hygiene products, a little research is one of the best ways to figure out what is going to work best for your child. Although there are a lot of products to choose from, not all of them are good for your child’s dental health. For instance, some toothpastes concentrate more on the delicious flavor opposed to the actual cleaning principles. Although its great for teaching kids to brush, it isn’t very good for preventing cavities. Even some kids’ flossers aren’t as safe as they are made out to be. Luckily, there’s lots of great recommendations to help you choose what is going to be right for your children. So, you can check out reviews from actual dentists when you’re looking for something to help your child’s mouth stay healthy.

7. Set Up a Timer
Believe it or not, but time can be your child’s best friend when it comes to dental hygiene. It is recommended that your child brush for at least five minutes, twice a day. This can be tough for children that just want to go off and have fun. So, you might want to look for a timer to ensure that your child brushes for the right period of time. There are lots of fun timers to choose from. You can even find one that suits your bathroom’s theme if that is important for you. This might actually allow your child to have some fun with brushing too. You can even have fun with the brushing period by coming up with games or giving rewards to children that brush for the entire period of time.

8. Bargain Hunt
Without a doubt, seeing a dentist is important for dental health. However, some dentists tend to charge an arm and a leg for their service. So, it’s always wise to look around. A lot of parents begin to look for dentist that have child-friendly offices. However, a lot of these offices tend to be a bit more expensive. They may have cute chairs for the kids to sit in, but their services are equal to those who often charge less. So, make sure to look around to see who has the best reviews and prices. This will help you find a long-term dentist that will ensure your child will grow to love going to the dentist and will feel safe in the environment they are in.

9. Take Precautions
When it comes to dental hygiene, taking precautions is one of the best ways to go. For instance, teaching children to brush and floss properly will set them up for a lifetime of good health. However, there are other precautions you can make to ensure your child will have a healthier mouth. One of these precautions is sealants. These go into the deep grooves of molars to help protect them from cavities. These back teeth are often harder for children to brush, especially if the grooves are deep. Sealants also cost less money than filling a cavity, so you will save even more money by taking precautions like these.

10. Explain Dental Hygiene
One of the best ways to ensure your child is doing their best when it comes to dental hygiene is to help them understand why they have to practice good health. A lot of children are shown what to do to keep their mouths healthy, but they don’t know why they have to practice these habits. There’s actually plenty of pamphlets available that children understand why they need to brush and how to do it. There are even age appropriate options to ensure that children understand about tooth decay and more as they grow. This knowledge will encourage children to brush and floss, as they will know what exactly is going on in their mouth.

National Children’s Dental Hygiene Month is a great time to help your children get the hang of brushing, flossing and seeing the dentist. Of course, it is also a great time for you to learn all of the amazing things that can help you save money when it comes to your child’s dental needs. With any luck, these ten tips will set you on the right track so you can easily make sure your child’s dental health is always great.

Chances are, if you’re on a diet this year, then National Pizza Day is going to be a bit of a challenge for you. Luckily, there’s some healthy options to satisfy your diet that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. The same can be said for pizza lovers that don’t have to hold back this year. Buying pizza can really put a dent in your budget though, but these ten tips will help you find the flavors you love for a price you can go for. So, don’t let National Pizza Day pass you by on February 9, because you can really make the best of the occasion and enjoy your favorite food without having to tighten your belt the rest of the week.

1. Make Your Own
If you’re looking for one of the best possible ways to enjoy pizza, then doing it yourself is the way to go. This will allow you to pick and choose whatever ingredients you like, which will allow you to know that you’re getting the healthiest possible meal, if that’s what you’re aiming for. Making your own pizza doesn’t have to be tough either. In fact, there’s even a few recipes that don’t require you to use yeast, so all you have to do is mix and go. You can even customize your pizza to suit your dietary needs, including gluten free or vegan. You can also step away from traditional pizzas and consider using a cauliflower crust to cut back on carbs. Of course, if you’re in a pinch you can use items like pita or naan bread to create a quick pizza that won’t fail to satisfy.

2. Wait for Deal
Although it might seem tough to let your craving go without satisfying it, waiting on a deal can really save you a whole lot of money. However, if you’re willing to do a little searching, you should be able to find some form of deal to satisfy your needs. Most competitive chain stores are constantly offering new promotions to sell more pizza. So, if the price is right then you might want to go for it. Many of these chains and even some local shops will also pass out coupons to bring people to their restaurant. These two elements can really save you big on your pizza needs. You may want to keep a look out for deals on National Pizza Day too, as this should give you lots of pizzas to choose from.

3. Order Big
Many people believe that if you want to get more for your money then you should order a larger quantity of pizza. However, this can hike up the price very quickly. Believe it or not, but you actually get more pizza if you spend a few extra dollars to order the larger size. It is basic geometry that shows that the larger circumference of a large pizza is much more than that of two smalls. So, next time you have a group to feed, keep it simple by just ordering the bigger size, your guests will thank you. You can even do this for yourself if you don’t mind eating frozen pizza later on.

4. Order Specialties
When it comes to picking and choosing what you would like on your pizza, ordering a custom order of toppings can take even the cheapest of pizzas to an extraordinary price. Usually, stores charge around $1 per added ingredient, which can add up if you’re planning on going all out on your pizza. Luckily, most shops offer specialty pizzas to help combat this problem. These pizzas usually cost a couple of dollars more than the one or two topping pizzas that most stores try to push. You will also be able to try a lot of fun new flavors, which will show off the restaurants ability to create a unique taste they call their own.

5. Pick It Up
Pizza is one of the best things to buy when you want something delivered to your doorstep. However, if you’re looking to save money then you might not want to click on that delivery option. Instead, pick up your pizza from the store whenever you can. When you order a pizza, the delivery fee might seem small at first, but when you look at the price difference between a pizza that was a carry out and a pizza that was delivered then you’ll be in for a surprise. On top of all the hidden fees, you also need to provide the delivery person with a tip. With all of these expenditures added together, you may end up spending an extra ten to twenty dollars. So, next time you want pizza, just pick it up yourself. It’ll save you some money and you won’t have to worry about it being cold because of a slow wait time or delivery service.

6. Loyalty Programs
One of the best things about pizza is the loyalty programs that you can find at most pizza shops. It doesn’t matter if it is a chain store or if you’re going to a mom and pop shop as you should be able to find a program that works for you. The best thing is, all of the loyalty programs tend to work differently, and you can have a loyalty program for every shop you go to. Most programs are designed to give you freebies when you spend a certain amount in the store. For instance, if you spend $100 then you might qualify for a free pizza. Some loyalty programs will only offer you coupons and insight to special offers. These can really come in handy when you want to splurge on something, but still want to save money. Usually, you can sign up for a loyalty program online, but many smaller shops will give you a punch card to help you keep track of your points.

7. Consider a Buffet
If you’re really in the mood for pizza and you want to get your money’s worth for the meal, then one of the best things you can do is hit the buffet. Usually, pizza buffets are fresh and offer a wide variety, so you can try out new things or stick to your favorite one topping classic. The best thing about buffets is they usually don’t force you to pay much for children. Some will even have days where children can eat for free. This should help you save some money, while giving you the opportunity to eat your fill on your favorite food. This is recommended for those on a diet though as you need to eat more than a slice or two to get your money’s worth.

8. Use a Credit Card
You might not think to buy pizza on your credit card as it seems like a useless expenditure. However, many credit card companies that have a reward program often offer cash back or more points for these expenditures. So, you may want to grab your credit card to pay. If you want to cut back on interest costs, then simply make a payment on the card so that it won’t negatively impact you. This will allow you to get the food you want, some amazing points and added convenience, without having to deal with any repercussions. Of course, if you spend money on your card often to get pizza then you may be doing yourself more harm than good. So, make sure to stay on top of the credit card bills if you choose to this on a regular occasion.

9. Go Frozen
If you’re short on time and money, then one of your best options is to go frozen. This doesn’t mean that you have to settle for pizza that even a college student wouldn’t take pleasure in. Rather, there’s a lot of great options available today that can help you find the pizza that will satisfy your cravings. From simple pepperoni to gourmet pizza, you are sure to find something that will make you feel amazing, especially for the price. You may want to do some research though, as many food websites have even made lists celebrating some of our frozen pizza options. The best thing about frozen pizza is it doesn’t take a whole lot of time make either, so if you’re looking for a great meal option for a busy school day then this is sure to make life easier.

10. Apps
Your phone can be a great asset when it comes to saving you some major money. Just about every major pizza store has an app to make life more convenient for customers. Not only do these apps help you order pizza in a snap, but it can also save you some major money. For instance, the app will automatically sign you up for rewards. You’ll also get to see the best deals available, so you’ll always know what is going to save you the most. Plus, you will be privy to online only deals. Some apps, which can be applied to your phone or computer’s browser also work to find you the best deal for pizza. These apps can also help you get rebates, which is sure to make you happier about your purchase.

National Pizza Day is the perfect time to give in to your cravings. These ten tips will help you find the best possible ways to save you big money on your pizza on the big day as well as the rest of the year. This should bring you lots of joy, amazing meals and save you plenty of money to spend on other things.

Joining the scouts can be one of the most efficient and fun aspects of childhood. It doesn’t matter if you join the Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts or other type of troop as there are so many things a child can get out of the experience. Unfortunately, a lot of troops are very underfunded, which forces them to cut back on the things their scouts can see and do. Many of the troops come from underprivileged neighborhoods which harms their communities even more. There are many ways that you can help support the scouts in your neck of the woods, without forcing you to spend a lot of money.

1. Become a Leader
One of the best things you can do for your community is to become a troop leader. If you have children, then you might want to consider signing up to work on your child’s troop, which will make the scouts even more memorable for the two of you. If your child isn’t in a troop then you can always start your own, which will bring more convenience to anyone in your neighborhood that is thinking about joining the scouts. Of course, you can always start a troop even if you don’t have a child. It isn’t hard to sign up for the task, especially if you were a scout yourself. You will have to go through a bit of training, but before you know it you’ll get to experience a rewarding project that you might have a lot of fun with.

2. Sponsor a Child
A lot of children really want to join the scouts, but their family simply can’t afford the excess charges. This is hard for many children as there aren’t enough scholarships to go around. Usually, scholarships are divided between communities too, so if you end up in a community that needs extra help then the chances of getting one will be slim. Sponsoring a child is one the best ways to lend a helping hand. It actually doesn’t cost you a whole lot to do this. The largest charges will be the first initial charges as you will have a registration fee as well as a uniform fee. However, after that it is merely keeping up with patches, dues and upkeeping the uniform. As the months pass, you might not notice a lot of money going towards your sponsored child at all. You can talk to your local scouting unit if you’re interested in doing this and they can match you with a child. You can also sponsor a child you already know as long as their parents are fine with the arrangement.

3. Fundraise
If you want a little less responsibility, then one of the best things you can do is fundraise to help out your local scouts. You can do this in so many ways, so you can find one that suits your interests to make the whole experience even more fun. One of the more popular options is to host a bake sale. This is usually an easy way to draw in money that can be quickly donated. Car washes are another fun option that the whole community can take part in. Apart from that, you might want to consider hosting a garage sale to earn some money. Some people even set up fundraisers online to help with the local scouts. Once you earn your money, you should be able to donate to your local chapter or at least talk to them about what you should do with the donations.

4. Shopping
Believe it or not, but you can actually earn some money for your local scouts simply by shopping. Amazon is one of the providers of this amazing service. All you have do is sign up for the scouts as your donation of choice and then make sure to go through the proper site whenever you order anything. The site takes a percentage of the sale and gives it to the charity or organization of choice. Of course, there are other ways to do this. Some stores will give you a special card to slide whenever you buy gas or other items and a percentage of these sales go to the scouts. You might not think this will help much, but the sales add up quickly. With other people participating in the same programs, you will be surprised by how much money the scouts will get just by having people shop around.

5. Donate
If you want to keep things simple, then you can easily just donate directly to the program of your choice. You can do this in a multitude of ways too. For instance, you can actually go online and donate directly to the scouts of your choice. All you have to do is enter the amount you want and hit donate. Then you even get a receipt for the amount to use for your taxes later on. Of course, if you like to do things the old-fashioned way then you can simply go into your scouting headquarters and donate money that way. The headquarters might even share what you donate will be used for or how you can donate to a specific cause.

6. Spread the Word
Believe it or not, but you can really do a lot of good simply by telling others about scouting. If your child is in the scouts, then you can easily tell their friends about the program in hopes that they will join too. You might also tell other parents about the program to help spread the word and get more people to join. The more scouts you have in the program, the better the funding which can allow students to gain more valuable experiences in their meetings and outings. You can also go a step further and make ads or flyers to pass out around the community. This is especially great if your troop is low on members. You can even talk to schools about spreading the word in hopes of getting more children interested in joining.

7. Purchase Products
At some point in time, you have probably been asked to buy a product from a scouting troop. May it be cookies, popcorn or chocolate bars, purchasing these items can actually help fund your local troops. Of course, this doesn’t mean that you have to spend a small fortune on the items. A few can go along way. If you do want to buy a lot of these items them freezing the cookies can actually keep them from going bad. This also gives you a nice cold treat on a hot day. If you know children in squads across the country and you want to give them a little support, then you’re also in luck. These days, you can actually order from specific troops online, which will help you satisfy family and friends with ease.

8. Talk to Your Employer
A lot of companies actually have special scholarships and grants that they offer to the youth in the community. These scholarships can be used for a wide variety of things, including helping local scouts go on trips and make their tuition for camp. If your company is one of these, or you think they might be, then you might want to set up a meeting to talk to your employer. You might prepare a pitch supporting your local scouts to see if they might want to donate to their cause. Make sure you have your troop’s information close by just in case they do have the scholarships or grants to pass out. You can also pitch the idea to donate to individual scouts, especially if you have a scout that might be the only one left out during a camp trip and so on.

9. Enroll Your Child
Without a doubt, one of the best things you can do is sign your child up for the scouts. This program offers so many benefits for both children and parents that you can’t go wrong signing your children up. As long as children still have an interest in the scouts, the program will be able to maintain itself. Thus, enrollment is crucial in this process. Of course, parents can play a major role in the scouts too. Don’t worry, as you will be able to find lots of great lessons in this process too. You might notice a change in your child when you enroll them in this program as they will have an increase sense of responsibility and will even have a greater interest in practical handicrafts and hobbies that don’t involve the technology.

10. Volunteer
Finally, volunteering can make you feel like you’ve done a good deed and will help allow the scouts in your neighborhood to enjoy trips that they wouldn’t be able to without the extra supervision. If you have a special skill set, then you might want to also volunteer to teach it at one of the troop’s meetings. Another idea is to offer baked goods, so the kids can have snacks during their meetings. If you can think it up, then you’re certain to find a great way to offer your time to the troops in your community.

The scouts have been a great part of the country for many decades now, so it is important to keep them alive. These ten tips will allow you to do your part to make sure the next generation gets to enjoy the scouts too. You will certainly feel great for helping out and may even find your own interest is peaked in the organization.

February is American Heart Association Month, which makes it the perfect time to pay more attention to your heart. Many people feel that they have to throw money into their health in order to receive results. However, this isn’t the case at all. In fact, there are a few everyday things you can do that can help with your heart and overall health. Some will even save you money in the long run. So, sit tight and absorb these ten tips because they might save your life one day or give you a better quality of life as you enter your golden years. Since it is the month to concentrate on heart health, you might also want to work on spreading the word, so others can improve on their heart health too.

1. Walk
One of the best things you can do for your heart is to go for a walk every day. It doesn’t matter when you go or what kind of path that you take, just get up and move. Sometimes, walking can be hard for people, but if you can get up and moving for at least ten minutes then your heart is going to benefit from it greatly. Of course, if you can spend longer out walking, then go for it. It’s not only great for your heart but can really help reduce stress and other problems you might be facing. Walking a little after a larger meal can even aid with digestion. So, if you can find a few minutes in your schedule, try walking instead of browsing on your phone or watching TV.

2. Floss
Believe it or not, but one of the best things you can do for your heart is to work on your dental hygiene. It has recently been discovered that gingivitis and other dental problems can be linked to problems with the heart. Plaque build up, in itself, can work to clog arteries which can lead to a heart attack or other problems. So, you might want to consider pulling out the floss once a day to keep your heart a little healthier. If you don’t like flossing, then a water pick is a great option to help you out. Of course, you should also make sure to see your dentist, so you can make sure everything is fine.

3. Ditch Beverages
One of the biggest problems many people have is drinking sugary drinks. These beverages are empty calories that really work against you in more ways than one. The calories that you take in from high calorie beverages are taking the place of the calories you need to indulge in healthy foods. This often means people take in too many calories in one day, which along with the sugar content leads to weight gain. This extra gain brings even more strain to the heart. Not to mention, the chemicals found in some drinks can have some major adverse effects on your heart. The only drink you really need is water, which can help you detox your body and stay hydrated. This will ensure that you feel great and your heart will be able to function properly.

4. Change Your Diet
You probably guessed, one of the best things you can do for your heart is to change your diet. Processed food is one of the worst culprits when it comes to causing people to gain weight. You should also cut back on frying your foods or going out to eat often. There’s a
long list of foods that aren’t great for your heart too, so make sure to avoid them when you can. When it comes to staying healthy, the best thing you can do is work on eating fresh fruits and vegetables whenever you can. These options will give you the nutrients you need to lead the healthiest possible life. Another great option is healthy fats and lean meats. Unfortunately, this will mean cutting back on red meat for those that love having hamburgers on a weekly basis. Foods that are orange, contain lots of beta carotene which is great for the heart. Dairy can also help out as it is linked to lowering cholesterol.

5. Get Enough Sleep
This might be one of the hardest things for some people to do. Getting enough sleep is very important in life, but often people sacrifice their sleep for entertainment purposes or for work. It is important that you try to get at least 7 hours of sleep every single day, but you should shoot for a full 8 whenever possible. This will not only improve your mental health but will allow your heart to pump more efficiently. It is hard to stress just how much rest can do for the body, so do yourself a favor and turn the TV off one show sooner, so you can get the sleep that your heart deserves.

6. Reduce Stress
It might seem impossible at times, but it is incredibly important that you don’t let stress build up for too long. It is natural to have stress, but this actually works against our bodies and puts a strain on the heart. Stress can bring on anxiety which raises heart rate and does the body lots of harm. Luckily, there’s many ways to manage stress which can help with your heart too. For starters, you might want to take up a sport or an exercise like yoga. This will work your body out, which will help improve the way your heart functions. You may also just want to choose a hobby that helps relieve your mind of stress. Of course, if taking action against stress doesn’t work then it might be time to take matters further. If your job is the main culprit, then consider switching jobs or even careers. If you’re having trouble with relationships or personal issues, then you might want to bring in a psychiatrist to help out.

7. Ditch Bad Habits
That New Year’s resolution you made a few weeks ago, might actually be in the best interest of your heart. So many of our bad habits actually lead to poor heart health. For instance, smoking or vaping and drinking alcohol can do their own unique number on your heart. Fast food is another huge culprit when it comes to reducing the health of your heart. If you find yourself sitting too much, then you’re also not helping your heart out at all. Luckily, you can work to combat the damage you have already done, so you can lead a healthier lifestyle. All you have to do is stick to your goals and ditch the bad habits that you have. Before you know it, you’ll begin to feel a lot better than you ever expected.

8. Singing
You may not have guessed that singing can be a great way to improve your heart health. Recently, a study was released saying that you should enjoy belting out those notes in the shower because its doing your heart a world of good. Singing doesn’t just work out the diaphragm, but it also brings you joy and reduces stress. Of course, if you’re a private person and you don’t like singing in public then head home and sing there when you can. There are even special devices that allow you to sing anywhere without hearing a note that you make. This can be great for apartment dwellers too that have to deal with thin walls. If you don’t mind singing in public then do it as much as you like. You might even consider joining a choir to ensure you practice this heart healthy activity often.

9. Be Social
If you have been feeling a little lonely lately then you might want to reach out to others as much as you can. Loneliness can be one of the worst things for your heart. This is largely because loneliness can cause depression and other mental disorders which can really do a number on the body. One of the best things you can do to combat this is to form strong connections with family and a select few friends. This will give your social activities a more meaningful nature to ensure that you feel less lonely even when you’re not socializing. Of course, if you’re an introvert, this doesn’t mean you have to socialize to the point of exhaustion. Try to socialize when you can and take lots of time to refresh afterward.

10. Be Aware of Your Body
Without a doubt, one of the top things you can do for yourself is to be aware of your body. This means documenting any changes you feel and going over them with your doctor. One of the most important things is to make sure you don’t have diabetes. If you have any inkling you do, then get checked out as soon as you can. You can even tackle this at some department stores that offer health days. High blood pressure and high cholesterol are also very important to keep track of too. So, visit your doctor regularly and make sure that everything is going well to keep your heart feeling great.

Your heart is one of the most important components of your body, so it is crucial to maintain its health. This can be a daily task though, as you really need to follow a regime that works with your lifestyle and schedule. These ten tips should help you find some easy ways to keep your heart on track though, so you can get the most out of your life.

Fun and work aren’t words that are commonly associated with each other, unless you work for a company that goes out of their way to ensure your time at work isn’t a chore. However, with National Fun At Work Day coming up, you might be wondering how you can add a healthy level of fun to your work day. Luckily, there are quite a few ways to make this happen without forcing you to spend a fortune on items to help out. These ten ideas will help your workplace feel more than just the daily grind, which will make you enjoy spending your time there all the more. So, get ready to boost your mood when you start utilizing a few of these tips.

1. Walk Around
One of the main problems with working in an office is you actually don’t get up and move around a whole lot. This can really make you feel tired and bored a lot faster. Not to mention, it has a lot of adverse effects on your health. One of the best ways to change the way you feel is to get up and walk around every few hours. This will get the blood flowing again and might even help out with your attention span. Walking around can help you get to know your office better too. This will allow you to have more fun and might even help you to meet new people you can casually chat with. If there are stairs in the office then try to walk up and down them too, if time allows. The more you keep your body activity, the happier you will feel and the more fun you will have.

2. Bake Treats
Another great way to find some fun in the work place is to offer some treats to your colleagues. If you enjoy baking, then you can easily make some of your favorites to share with those you work with. Putting some love into your treats will help others feel closer to you, which will help you make better connections with your co-workers. Having delicious treats around will also help boost your own mood, which is certain to make the lull of the day feel a lot better. Try to enjoy your treats while mingling with others though, as it will help give you a boost of joy while allowing others to feel the same way. You might even find that others act on your example and bring their own treats to share.

3. Decorate Your Workspace
One of the easiest ways to have some fun with work is to decorate your space. Looking at stark walls or a boring cubicle can really bring down morale. So, try to incorporate things that you really enjoy in life. For instance, pictures of loved ones, especially those that show you having a good time, will help keep you feeling happier as you work. You might consider placing motivational posters or other forms of art, which will give you a space that is entirely unique to you. Plants are another great item to have, which will create a cozy environment that even helps offer fresher air. This alone can rejuvenate you, while boosting your mood. Apart from that, you might also bring some fun elements like figurines, slinkies or anything you can play with when you’re feeling like work is too much. Before you know it, your space will seem a lot more efficient.

4. Create a Club
A club might not seem like something that should be handled in the office, but many work locations have thriving clubs. This doesn’t mean you should conduct meetings during work hours though. Instead, consider meeting during your lunch hour once a week. You can come up with all sorts of clubs too. For instance, you might find likeminded people who love to read. You can all get together to discuss a book every now and then and come up with ideas for the next thing to read. If you’re interested in a sport, then have some colleagues join a team with you. There are many leagues you can join that work specifically with teams created in the workplace. Creating a club like this will help bring comradery into the office, which will make your day to day tasks feel less grueling.

5. Set Goals
One aspect of having fun at work has a lot to do with the goals you set. If you come into work feeling as if you are going to be repeating the same day over and over again, then you’re not going to have any fun. You may even find that your life feels a lot more meaningless. Your goals can be both long and short term goals to help you get through the hours in the day or the months in the year. You should always reward yourself for the goals you accomplish too. For smaller goals, you can offer yourself the opportunity to play a level on one of your mobile games or a simple piece of candy. Larger goals might be rewarded with weekend trips or a new pair of shoes that you’ve had your eye on. Before you know it, you’ll be working more efficiently and having fun doing it.

6. Be Friendly
When it comes down it, one of the best ways you can find more fun in the work place is to be kind to everyone you meet there. Being friendly will help you make friends and will even get you out of some tough situations you might not want to deal with. If you feel like your coworkers are also your friends, then work will become an environment that brings you less pressure. This is great for your health and will make your day to seem a lot more fun. Having friends in office will encourage joking around as well as laughter. As you know, laughter is one of the great natural cures, so you should be able feel amazing just by altering your behaviors. If you’re not sure how to be friendly with some of your colleagues, then start off with a smile and a simple greeting whenever you see them.

7. Be Open with Bosses
Another major problem with the office dynamic is so many people are afraid of their bosses. The distance between boss and employee can cause a lot of stress and discomfort in the office. You can take the relationship in a healthy direction by being open with your bosses. For instance, if you think it might boost morale in the office by implementing a Casual Friday every once in a while, then you might want to open dialogue to see if this is a possibility. You will be surprised as to how attentive some bosses will be with matters like this, especially if they feel like it could help out with production. Due to company policies, you will probably never be friends with your boss, but having a friendly outlook toward one another can really help make life easier and happier for you. You may even be able to get a few more office parties out of the deal to make life more fun.

8. Mix Things Up
Repetition can be one of the main problems when it comes to working. Doing the same menial task day in and day out can leave you feeling like you’re in a slump. If you want to remedy this problem, then you have to mix things up. Doing things in a different order can help to solve this problem. For starters, you might do one task last instead of first, just to change things up. You can even alter your lunch by bringing food that you wouldn’t normally have. Of course, the best way to deal with this problem is to come up with a fun routine that will keep you on your toes. This is certain to bring some fun to your daily tasks, which will make you feel like you’re having fun with a new game.

9. Utilize Stress Relief
Another problem that really brings people down in the work place is their stress levels. In order to make life a bit more fun in the office, you might want to consider a few things to help you manage your stress. For instance, a stress ball or fidget spinner can really help you get rid of some excess energy while ditching your stress. These items can bring a little fun to your day too, which is an added bonus. A newer technique you might want to consider is tapping. This method actually uses the body to help calm itself down. There are a few places you can tap that are discreet and will help you ditch stress for good while you work. Of course, laughter will also get rid of stress in a hurry, so make sure to try to find some funny elements to cheer you up while you work.

10. Find Distractions
A lot of people don’t think that distractions at work are a good idea, but they couldn’t be any more in the wrong. Distractions can actually help you become more productive at the work place. This doesn’t mean that you should avoid your work. Instead, find ways to distract you that only take a few seconds to a couple of minutes. For instance, you might want to stop and play yourself a song if you find yourself slowing down at work or getting too stressed out about something. You might even consider watching a video or doing some breathing exercises that put you in a good mood. No matter the distraction, make sure you find the time to enjoy something you like once or twice a day, at the least, so you don’t feel as if your entire day was wasted doing something you actually dislike.

Finding fun at work is actually a very important way to maintain your own mental health. These tips should allow you to have some fun while keeping true to your work. So, this National Fun at Work Day try to find a little more enjoyment, so you can start the year out finding even more love for your job.

With Super Bowl season upon us, you may find that you have a lot more beer and soda cans to dispose of. Sometimes, they may even seem like they’re taking over the place, which can cause a lot of stress for you during your after party clean up sessions. There’s a lot of great things you can do with your cans to ensure they get upcycled instead of just letting them go to waste. So, on Beer Can Celebration Day, you may want try out some of these fun ideas. Each idea will hardly cost you a thing and some may even bring even more money back into your bank account. With an abundance of can upcycling ideas, you may want to hold onto your cans in the future to bring a fun way to upcycle to your family.

1. Recycle
One of the best things you can do with all of your excess cans is send them to a recycling center. This might be a hard option for some states or rural areas, but there are many ways you can get your cans to a recycling area without bringing too much inconvenience onto yourself. Recycling centers are great places because they prevent your cans from ending up in a landfill, as they bring danger to wildlife and aren’t exactly biodegradable. In many states, there are actual special centers available to take your cans for you. When you return your cans, you receive money back for the special tax you had to pay for them. This is a great incentive method that can help you buy more beverages or simply allow you to start a savings fund. Make sure you know your state’s rules, so you can get the most profit for your cans.

2. Make Coasters
If you’re looking for a great way to get more out of your empty cans, then you might want to consider turning them into something functional like a coaster. Not only will this help prevent you from throwing out items that can be used, but it will also help you protect your furniture. The best thing is, the coasters will be perfect for when you host a party that has people drinking even more beverages. Since you will mostly be using logos from beer and soda, you will have a cool look for your bar as well. Transforming cans into coasters doesn’t take professionals skills either. There’s actually many ways to accomplish this, so you might want to check out tutorials online to see which idea you like the most.

3. Cookie Cutters
If you love to bake, then you might want to consider transforming your cans into something spectacular, like cookie cutters. This will take your baking to a whole new level while allowing you to save on the items you’ve recycled. You might want to start simple by creating items that are easier like simple circles or even a heart. Once you get the hang of these shapes, you might want to try doing shapes with actual detailing. All you will need to create these items is a pair of metal scissors and a soldering iron or a special glue. You may want to take your time to experiment with the way you work with these materials too. This craft isn’t a great idea to do with younger children, but they will absolutely love the designs you end up making. You may even be able to sell some of your cookie creations at bake sales to help earn you even more money.

4. Jewelry
Another fun way to enjoy upcycling cans is to use them to make jewelry. You can make so many different types of jewelry with cans that it will make your head spin. Of course, you will need to learn how to cut the metal in order to pull this off. There are many tutorials on how to do this online though, so it shouldn’t take long to figure out. If you’re interested in making multidimensional items, like earrings and rings then you may want to do a little extra work in order to practice for the supplies. Once you get the hang of it, you will be able to draw in a crowd with your amazing designs. You can also keep things simple my using weaving methods or other techniques to make items like bracelets. No matter what you choose to do, you’re sure to enjoy the creations you make. You might even be able to sell them online or at craft fairs.

5. Storage Items
You might be surprised, but you can really improve on your home’s storage when it comes to upcycling cans. These items are very simple to work with too, so you can create as many storage items as you like in next to no time. All you have to do is cut off the top of the container and then add a layer to the sharp edge to help prevent injuries. From there, you already have a functional container that will allow you to place items like pencils and other small utensils. Of course, you can go the extra mile by painting your new storage container. You might even paint it to make it easy for children to understand what is in it. Chalk board paint really comes in handy for such things. This idea is especially great for items like snacks that you might place in the new container.

6. Plant Holders
If you plan on having a garden, then beer and soda cans might be your next best friend. One of the best things you can do for your plants is to use the can to help protect them from worms while they’re in the ground. Smaller plants are great for this, as their roots won’t span out too far. All you have to do is cut off the top of the can and place your seed in the can with some soil. You can even use the cans as a way to start your seeds out. Of course, you can also use the cans as decorative planters too. All you have to do is take off the top of the can and paint it to suit your needs. Then, add string or wire to the top to hang up your planter. You can even paint it to help it suit your decor.

7. Outdoor decor
Many people love to use old cans as a way to make outdoor decor. One of the most popular items is a wind chime because of the way the metal sounds when it clangs together with other metals. You can cut your cans into all sorts of shapes and sizes too, which adds to the fun of the look. You can even create lawn ornaments, like pin wheels or lanterns to make your yard stand out. Best of all, you don’t have to paint these to make them look cool as the logos on the can should stand out. Wreaths are another fun option to add to the yard, which will make all of your neighbors envious of your crafting skills.

8. Artwork
You can even transform your old cans into a wide variety of artwork. One of the most popular options is to create a mosaic out of the pieces of the can. These are simple to do as all you need to do is cut up a wide variety of colors. Many people like to think outside of the box and use the cans to create amazing sculptures. Some people do this by stacking the cans, while others actually mold the metal together. If you’d like to try this out, a cube is one of the easiest ways to begin the hobby and will give you a modernistic sculpture to show off. Of course, one of the most popular things to make with cans right now is stylish metallic roses. These can be made fairly simply painted to resemble the real thing. Best of all, you can keep them on display all year to impress your guests.

9. Camping Gear
If you like to go camping, then all of your extra cans can come in handy. This might be even more useful considering you often use cans while camping anyway. One of the coolest things you can use a can for is to make your own little stove. There’s a ton of great tutorials on this, which should transform the way you camp for the better. This little stove will allow you to cook a wider variety of food without forcing you to bring a ton of extra gear with you. It can also come in handy if you’re every stranded and need to make your own food. Beer cans can be transformed into cups rather quickly too, so you can enjoy coffee, fresh water or anything else you bring along. Of course, they’re also great for other things like ash trays or keeping track of smaller pieces of trash.

10. Collect
Many people actually love to collect certain cans that hit the market. Cans that offer pop culture pictures and other similar items can often be worth a bit of money in the long run. If you think these items are cool, then keep the cans or even keep the whole beverage in a safe place. After a couple of years have passed or if you notice there is high demand and a slow supply, then you might want to check on an auction site to see if you can earn some money from your early shopping. You might be surprised as to how much people will pay for a can, so collecting could end up adding a lot to your bank account.

Dealing with leftovers cans can be quite a bit of a hassle if you don’t know what to do with them. These ten ideas will help you find the perfect way to handle your surplus of cans, so you won’t have to toss them in the garbage. This will not only help you save and possibly even earn some money, but it will help out the environment too.

February is coming faster than we think, which means its time to start planning for the Super Bowl. If you don’t have cable, then you might already be wondering how you’re going to experience this year’s game. Of course, there are also a lot of other aspects to the big game that might leave you wanting to spend a whole lot of money. Although it’s too early to pick a side, you might want to check out these ten ideas, so you can save money on the big event. With a little help, your Super Bowl experience won’t cut into your budget at all, which should make you feel great, whether your team loses or wins.

1. Rent a TV
A lot of people try to make sure they have the best possible view for the big game. Although you might have budgeted to get a new TV during this time, there are many other ways you can save big in this area. Although the sales should be irresistible during this time, if you really don’t have the money for such a splurge then you might consider renting a TV instead. This will allow you to enjoy the higher quality and bigger screen during the game, but won’t give you a financial commitment that will make you tight on money for the next few months. Best of all, this will give you the opportunity to try out the TV before you decide if you should buy it or not.

2. Consider a Restaurant
If you don’t want to throw a party or pay for a service to watch the game, then a restaurant might be a great idea for you. This is especially great, if you’re going to be watching the game on your own. Many bars and restaurants will be offering specials during this time, so you might be able to score a great deal on food or drinks. As long as you have something to eat or drink at the venue, then you should be set to watch the entire game. It will also give you a chance to cheer on your team with other fans, which will give you the pleasure of a party without the cost. You might even feel like you got your money’s worth since you won’t have to cook or deal with expensive snacks from the store. If you plan on doing this, then keep an eye on your local venues as many won’t announce deals until a few days prior to the big event. However, you can always go ahead and make plans based on other Sunday specials that intrigue you.

3. Use Your Antenna
Antennas are the best way to get more out of your TV without spending a monthly fee. In most areas, antennas can pick up a few basic channels, including ABC and Fox networks. With these channels, you should be able to catch the big game without forcing you to spend a lot of money. Of course, you should monitor the channel before the game begins to make sure that your antenna is located in an efficient area. This will help avoid interruptions that might occur due to lack of signal. You can purchase an antenna for fairly cheap and the channels you receive on it won’t cost you a cent.

4. Potluck Style
Many people really get a kick out of having people over during the big game. It is part of experience, so not throwing a party simply isn’t an option. If you choose to do this then one of the best things you can do is host a potluck style party. This will take a huge burden off of you and will ensure there are plenty of snacks for everyone to enjoy. You can keep your potluck simple by asking people to bring basic snacks, like chips and sodas, or you can have a more intricate party with people bringing dishes for an actual meal. No matter how you choose to work your party, make sure to give your guests notice well in advance so they have time to plan on the items they need to bring.

5. Go to Someone’s Party
If you like the party atmosphere, but don’t want to sink a lot of money into your own party then go to someone else’s. You don’t have to host the party to have a good time, in fact, it might be nice to take a load off and just enjoy yourself. So, try to find a friend that’s hosting a party or branch out to the community. Some churches, clubs and community centers will actually host their own party, which should allow you to have some fun without worrying about the price tag. This is probably one of the best ways to enjoy the game and will give you the comradery that you crave.

6. Online Streaming
The internet brings a lot of power to you when it comes to watching things like the Super Bowl. If you have devices like a Fire Stick or Roku, then you’re already set to find a multitude of options that will allow you to check out the Super Bowl on your own terms. Even if you don’t have one of these devices in the home, you should still find options that will suit your needs. For instance, if you have a laptop or phone then you should be able to stream the Super Bowl from channels that would typically play the game. Usually, these channels don’t charge, but even if they do it is only a few dollars or a free trial should be available. With the internet on your side, you should be able to enjoy the Super Bowl without worry. You can even make it larger than life if you have a projector and a blank wall.

7. Eat What You Have
A lot of people think they need to grab specific items when it comes to the Super Bowl. Retailers bank on this concept and often offer Super Bowl sections to ensure people spend more money on the event. During the Super Bowl itself, you will see a wide variety of commercials designed to get you to want to get up and go shopping or at least hit the drive thru window. One of the best things you can do is stick to what you already have in your cabinet. Snacks can be just about anything you want to eat, including leftovers, so don’t go out of your way to make this happen. This will save you a lot of money, especially when it comes to saving money on restaurants. It also might make the event a lot healthier for you, as most Super Bowl snacks aren’t exactly great for you.

8. Don’t Throw a Party
It might be tough, but if you don’t have the budget to throw a party then don’t do it. You can skip out on the party for a year without disappointing too many people. If you’re feeling a little exhausted then this might be the perfect weekend to spend on you, instead of worrying about snacks and other items. There is nothing wrong with watching the game on your own as you can do so in your pajamas if you please. Not throwing a party will really cut back on your spending. It might also offer a lot of other options to you. For instance, you might spend time at a new friend or colleague’s home instead. You may also just find the time is right to spend quality time with the children without anyone else interfering.

9. Keep Everyone Moving
If you do choose to host a party, then one of the best ways to keep people busy without forcing you to spend lots of money is to keep them moving. Exercise will prevent everyone from wanting to snack throughout the game, which will cut back on the amount of snacks and beverages that you need to grab. For instance, during the commercials, you might have people do jumping jacks, run in place or other exercises in order to keep them busy. You can base the exercise on how poorly their team did. People will love the punishment and reward concept so much that it might even become a part of your new game day experience. During the half time show, consider bringing out a game of charades or have everyone toss the ball around outside. Everyone will be too busy to think about snacking, which is sure to make your life a lot easier and more frugal.

10. Use Coupons
It doesn’t matter if you’re hosting a party or not, one of the best ways to save during this time is to actually use coupons. You can use coupons in the grocery store or even in a restaurant or bar that you choose to go to. Luckily, during this time many stores will actually put out more coupons that are based around items that you would typically buy for the Super Bowl. Of course, if you don’t use these coupons for the party then you may simply want to use them to stock up the house without spending a bundle. These coupons are especially good for buying items in bulk, so don’t shy away from them if you want to save some money.

The Super Bowl is a great time to hang out with family and friends. However, it can also cost you a bit of money if you want to really go all out for the experience. These tips will help you save quite a bit of money on your Super Bowl experience, so you can enjoy the game how you please without throwing money away in the process.

January is National Bath Safety Month, which can be an important time for any family. Although you might think that bath safety is common sense, it may surprise you just how many injuries and deaths occur in the bath every day. Creating a safe environment for the whole family can be a crucial area when it comes to your household’s hygiene and ability to relax. You don’t have to spend a small fortune to ensure your bathroom is safe though. Instead, there’s a few simple and cheap tips you can follow to ensure bath time isn’t a cause for distress.

1. Add a Slip Mat
One of the key components to keeping everyone safe during bath times is to add a non-slip mat in the tub. This device comes in many shapes and sizes, so you can customize it to suit your overall needs. One of the most common types of mats offers suction cups that secure to the bottom of the tub, while the top adds extra traction, so children and adults can safely move in and out of the tub. There are many other options though, including smaller pieces that suction cup to the tub to create fun designs that keep you safe. Some of these pieces can even tell you if the water is too hot, which makes them a great option for children. Of course, any items that use suction cups should be pulled up after each use, so they can dry properly. Otherwise, you may be dealing with a mold issue that can cause problems with the health of children and the elderly. If you don’t like this option, there are appliques that can be placed on the bottom of the bathtub to add a bit more traction; however, these aren’t as effective and can diminish over time.

2. Invest in a Thermometer
Scalding is a very common injury in the bathroom, which can lead to permanent physical and psychological damage. You might not think about the temperature of the water often, because for most adults it easy just to feel the water and determine if it is too hot for their body. With children and the elderly, this may not be the case. So, it might be wise to purchase a thermometer designed for the bathtub. This will help you ensure that the water won’t leave your loved one in pain. Of course, you can also help combat this problem by turning your water down to 120 degrees or less. This will cut back on the opportunity your loved one has to be scolded. You should also wait to measure the temperature of the water until the tub is to capacity, as the water temperature can get warmer while the bath is still running.

3. Install Grab Bars
You might not think you need them, but grab bars are one of the best ways to protect yourself when it comes to having a bath. These items allow you to secure yourself, so you won’t have to worry about slipping on the wet surface of the tub. These bars are typically only used for the elderly, but they can really come in handy if you’re feeling sick or if you like to take baths that are excessively hot. Of course, if you do have an elderly loved on in the house then these can be crucial for their care. They can even help out with bathing children as it will give your child something to grab onto when getting out of the tub. These bars are usually inexpensive and easy to install in most showers and bathtubs.

4. Place Non-Skid Mats on the Floor
Of course, one of the most dangerous area in the bathroom isn’t actually the bathtub at all. It is the bathroom floor. The floor is what causes so many problems each year, but there is a simple remedy for it. That is, non-skid mats. So many people place everyday rugs in the bathroom, which do offer some protection, but they can do more harm than they do good. These rugs can slip on a tile floor, which will cause an even harder fall. Your best option is to choose a mat that has a special rubber on the bottom. This will offer a more secure connection to the floor, so you can get in out and of the bathtub with ease. You should consider placing these mats in other areas of the bathroom too, such as under the toilet and in front of the sink. The extra support will make things a little less stressful for those who might have trouble getting up and down or keeping their balance.

5. Clean Bath Toys
Another area you might not consider as needing a little extra concern is your child’s bath toys. Since they go in the bath with your child, many people already believe them to be sanitary especially if they have been left out to dry. However, mold can still grow in these popular toys which can cause a lot of different ailments. You may not even know what is happening with your child until they are so sick they have to be hospitalized. So, it is important to take proper precautions in order to keep these toys clean. One way to do this is to boil the toys every so often. This should kill any mold that is growing. You can also bleach them or follow a more natural method of cleaning. You should always leave them out to dry before putting them back in the tub with your child.

6. Use Faucet Covers
Although the bathtub itself poses one of the biggest dangers, you might also want to be aware that the faucet can also bring injury or death if someone hits their head on it. This is more common in children that tend to play near the faucet. The faucet tends to be more of a danger for minor injuries like head bumps with children, which can cause pain or even a need for stitches. There is a quick solution to this problem though as many companies have developed rubber faucet covers. Often, these come in cute designs that will please your child while making bath time more fun. If you don’t want to spend your money, there are some DIY options that can help you out too.

7. Utilize Bright Lights
Another huge problem with the bathroom is with lighting. Often, bathrooms have dim lights which can cause a problem when it comes to falling asleep in the bathtub. This can lead to drowning, especially when it comes to the elderly. By replacing your lightbulbs to brighter bulbs, you can easily change the dynamic of the bathroom. This allows people to be more alert, so falling asleep is less likely to happen. You can even find energy efficient bulbs that are brighter, which will allow you to save even more money while helping out with the environment.

8. Keep Electronics Away from the Bath
It might seem like common sense, but electrocution has become a larger issue recently. Although many people are aware that they shouldn’t have electronics in the bathtub, many people don’t consider their phone to be such a problem. However, there have been an increase in deaths amongst young adults and teenagers that were charging their phones while using them in the bath. The best way to remedy this problem is to ban electronics in the home. You might have to block plugs to keep some members of the household from using them, but it will help keep the house safer. Luckily, in most houses the plugs are so far away from the tub that electronics can’t reach it; however, you should keep a look out for items that have longer cords.

9. Properly Use Bath Accessories
Another major problem when it comes to the bath is bath accessories. Many people think they can wing it when it comes to these items, which could lead to health problems later on. Essential oils, for starters, can cause skin irritation when you use too much of them. Babies and small children shouldn’t be exposed to some oils too, so make sure you know what you’re using before you commit to putting it in your bath. You should also make sure you’re not allergic to an oil before you place it in a bath too. Other items, like Epsom salts, should be used based on the recommendations on the packaging. These items can dry out the skin or cause rashes if not properly used. In children, bubble baths can lead to rashes or even UTIs if you aren’t careful. You may even want to be careful with bath bombs as some have made it onto a recall list in recent months. So, make sure to follow all of the instructions when you have these items and look for signs of irritation.

10. Always Supervise
One of the most dangerous aspects of the bath is leaving a child or elderly adult unsupervised. This causes so many deaths each year and has left others with permanent disabilities. You might think that shallow water is safe for leaving a child or an elderly loved one with limited mobility, but drownings can even happen in this water. So, it is always best to handle everything you need to before giving someone a bath. This will allow you to keep an eye on the situation so that the unthinkable won’t happen.

National Bath Month is a great time to help learn more about bath safety, so you can ensure your household is under control. These tips will help you know the changes you need to make in order to keep your bathroom a safe space for your loved ones. These ideas should help you save money when it comes to adding safety features to the room too.

With technology taking over a huge chunk of our lives, there’s no surprise that ditching social media is one of the top resolutions for this year. Luckily, taking social media out of your reach is cheap and might even help you save some money in the long run. However, many people often replace one bad habit with another, which is when you can really run into some expenditures. These ten ideas will give you simple and cheap things to do that will help you channel some of the aspects of social media, so you won’t give in on your goals or throw money at your problem. With these helpful tips, you’ll be more than ready to cleanse yourself from your news feed in 2018.

1. Read a Book
One of the best things to do when working on ditching social media is to brush up on some good books. A book is a great way to take away some of the tendencies of social media. First of all, with social media you are always reading. Books can satisfy this urge while giving you more compelling words to read. You may even feel as if your thought process has improved after reading for a few days. You can read just about anything to take your mind off of your favorite websites and apps too. You may even find a few options that will teach you new things. Apart from that, reading keeps your hands busy, so you’re not as tempted to reach for the phone. You can take a book with you just about anywhere too. They even make pocket sized books to help you fit in a book whenever you have the time to spare.

2. Work on Your Photography Skills
A major part of social media is posting photos for all to see. However, a lot of the time we simply get lost in a sea of selfies. While you’re off social media, you might want to take time out to work on photography that you might cherish later on down the line. You can even learn how to get more out of the camera on your phone if you don’t have a professional camera. Since you won’t have an audience to impress, you may find yourself looking for subjects that will please you. This should help you take your mind off of social media and will give you a skillset you can feel proud of. You might even consider taking lessons on how to edit your photos to improve the quality all the more.

3. Pick Up Writing
With social media, we tend to be able to express our thoughts whenever we feel like it. So, when you take a break from this, there is a bit of a hole missing in your life. Writing is one way to fill this gap that will actually do you a lot more good than expressing yourself on social media. Writing allows the body to relax while clearing the head of things that might be bringing us down. Since there is no audience you can feel free to say whatever it is you need to say. You might also consider writing stories, keeping a journal of ideas or simply making lists of what you did on any given day. The method of writing will make life clearer and will make you wonder why you even expressed private thoughts on social media in the first place.

4. Hang out with Loved Ones
Sometimes, social media takes the place of the time we would spend with loved ones. In a matter of seconds, we can look at pictures of family, see what everyone is up to and even comment on something happening in their life. So, the need to get together doesn’t feel as important. After getting off social media, you will find that you long to have those connections again. Spending time with loved ones can help your health improve immensely too. Not to mention, it is great for the elderly in your family as quality time can help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s as well as an early death. Family that live close will certainly help you get rid of your need for social media, but you might want to plan a well-deserved vacation to see those that live far away too.

5. Go Outside
The great outdoors can really curb the need to get on social media. When you’re outside enjoying life, you tend not to need to post about what is going on as you are enjoying the fun as it happens. This is a great way to totally cleanse your mind of the apps and websites you spend so much time on. So, play a cycling trip, go hiking or join a sports team. The activity will help you lead a healthier life while ensuring you won’t think about social media. If you still feel the need to get on your phone while you’re out, try to plan trips that have low data areas while you’re still trying to suppress the urge to share your life to everyone on your friend’s list.

6. Join a Club
One of the best qualities of social media is you can join just about any kind of club you want. So, by cleansing yourself from social media you may also be getting rid of the clubs you’ve become a part of. Luckily, most communities have a wide variety of clubs to choose from so you can develop relationships face to face while also learning more about your specific interests. You can find clubs you like in a wide assortment of areas. You might start with your community center, or ask around music, game, tech and other niche shops, depending on your interest. Joining a local club will help take care of the free time you spend on your phone, while giving you more joy in a healthier manner.

7. Consider a Power Out Period
If you can’t keep your paws off your phone, then you might go one step further and have a power out period. This will keep you off your phone entirely as you won’t have the internet to connect to. Best of all, it will mean you will have to participate in an activity that doesn’t involve electricity. This might be the perfect time to start a new work out or pick up a fun hobby. After cleansing entirely from technology, your body and mind might feel a lot less stressed. Social media and some forms of technology can really weigh heavy on the mind, which can cause your mental health to decrease. So, shutting down for a while may help you heal and grow. Apart from that, you may end up saving money on your power bill. In fact, some electrical companies will give financial incentive to those who are willing to shut down at a specific time during the week.

8. Explore News Sources
Unfortunately, social media has become one of the main ways that people get their news. This is a major problem because anyone can post anything on social media. It is a lot of work just trying to figure out what news source is reliable now. Without social media throwing information at you continuously, you might want to take the time to actually research and explore news options. You can check out everything from radio to newspapers. When you find something you like, stick with it. This will help you get in the habit of getting your news from elsewhere, even if you do go back to social media. You might even find that your view of the world has slightly changed, especially if you check out news sources from more than one country.

9. Embrace Board Games
Back in the day, people used to sit down and play games together in order to socialize and have some fun. Most games involve some form of skillset to ensure that games are challenging and fun. However, with the dawn of social media, people can play games whenever they want on their phone, many of which do not offer any benefits. Even games like cards can be solitary. So, you might want to dial your meter back a bit and plan on playing some of the games you did as a kid. For instance, you might try social games like Dungeons and Dragons if you are a fan of fantasy. This can be a family friendly game too that will have everyone spending time together. Apart from role playing games, there are many games like Monopoly, Life and even Candyland that can bring people together. You might consider planning your parties around these games. The goal is to have fun and socialize without having a screen in front of your face.

10. Keep Your Hands Busy
When getting over any addiction, many people complain that not having their hands busy is the main problem that they face. This can be a problem when ditching social media too since your hands are always busy scrolling, typing and clicking on posts. The best way to remedy this problem is to find a hobby that keeps your hands busy. For instance, learning to knit can be a huge help when kicking a habit like social media. You might also want to try activities like drawing or playing an instrument. The longer your hands are busy, the less likely you will be to pick up your phone and start typing away.

Getting rid of social media, or even just doing a cleanse, might sound much easier than it is. With these helpful tips, you should find this task to be a touch easier than it might be if you don’t have activities to engage in to keep you busy. These tips will also be easy on your budget, so you can get more out of following your resolution.

Chances are, your household is experiencing some pretty cold weather. Although this is common for many areas in the winter months, some areas are getting a lot colder than they normally would. If you have kids, then this weather can really make life hard, especially during transport times to school and activities. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to help keep your kids a little warmer while the weather is unbearable. You won’t have to spend a pretty penny in order to do this either, which will help make your winter budget stretch a lot further. So, get ready to make bundling up and heading to and from school, as well as weekend play times, a little easier to deal with thanks to these simple tips.

1. Warm Breakfast
One of the key elements to keeping children warmer is to provide them with a warm breakfast before they have to go out in the cold. One of your best options here is to whip up some simple oatmeal. This amazing food can be spiced up with peanut butter, fruits or anything else that strikes your fancy. Plus, the warmth from the cereal with resonate with your child for some time. Best of all, oatmeal provides lots of energy, so your child will feel like moving around to stay even warmer. Of course, if you feel like it you might consider making other warm dishes like bacon, eggs, pancakes and more. Giving your child a warm beverage can help with the cold they will have to endure too. If they have to wait outside for the bus then consider putting warm milk, low sugar hot cocoa or a caffeine free tea in a flask to help them stay warmer during their wait.

2. Workout In Place
Another simple way to get the kids warm is to teach them a few workouts that they can do in place. One simple thing is to have them jog in place. This can be great to do just before they have to head out into the cold, but you should also help them continue with these movements while they wait on the bus. Jumping jacks are another great option, but you may want to keep this as an indoor activity if the ground is slippery. When the kids get home from school, you may have them do a few sit ups to warm their bodies faster from the walk home. These activities will not just warm your child up, but will help create good habits that can carry on into adulthood.

3. Tea Party
One great way to handle afternoon snack time while bringing even more warmth to the kids is to host a tea party after school. Before the kids come home, you can easily warm up the home by making scones and cookies, which shouldn’t add a lot to your food budget. When the kids get home from school then put on the kettle or boil some water to make them tea. The party will add a fun touch to the day, while the warm snacks and drinks will help the kids forget about the cold for a little while. This is also a great way to enjoy family bonding time and will help your children learn how to share the details of their day with you.

4. Reading Tent
You might want to consider giving the kids a cozy place to cuddle up before and after school. A reading tent is a great option and may even encourage kids to spend more time reading opposed to watching TV. A reading tent is simple to make. If you’re not sure where to begin, there are lots of tutorials and ideas online that will help you make a tent that will suit your children’s needs. When the tent is finished, fill it with pillows and blankets. Kids can hop in the tent before and after school to warm up and work on homework or read a book. The enclosed area will help lock in the warmth that the kids naturally produce, while the pillows and blankets add even more comfort and warmth to the area.

5. Hot Hands
If you’ve ever met anyone that spends a lot of time outdoors in the winter, then you have probably heard about hot hands. These pouches help to bring warmth to the hands while spending time outdoors. Some people will even place them in their shoes to help keep the body even warmer. You can buy these packs in most stores, but there are also a few ways to make them at home. The DIY hot hands will not only save you money, but will present your children with safer ingredients. These pockets should be used by older kids only, as younger children may still be tempted to place them in their mouth. To add more fun to the cold weather, you might have your children help you make the pockets, which will teach them a bit about science. If you’re concerned about ingredients, then you can always heat up rice in a sock for a similar effect that won’t leave you worrying about your child consuming the item.

6. Reheat Clothing
Getting out of bed in the morning when it’s cold can be tough, especially when you know you have to go out into the freezing weather. One way to remedy this problem is to offer your children clothes fresh out of the dryer. You might start by heating up their base layers so they can start their morning out with warm clothing. Then, before it is time to leave for school toss sweaters, jackets, hats and socks into the dryer. This will help give them an extra jolt of heat, so they won’t feel like they’re too cold before they arrive at school. If you don’t want to heat up everything, then you might just stick to warming up the children’s sweaters. These items usually hold heat longer and will warm up your child’s core which will make the whole body feel warmer.

7. Keep Kids Moving
Of course, outdoor play can be a huge problem when it comes to the cold weather. It might be harder to get children to want to go out play due to this. There are some ways you can help children keep warm so they will be inspired to get out and exercise. The best way to do this is to keep kids moving as much as possible. You should organize relay races, scavenger hunts that involve running or jogging and any other game you can think of that will keep kids on their toes while they’re outside. Playing tag is always a great option during these periods of cold, as are sports and games that your child already loves.

8. Have Fun With Layers
When an unexpected cold snap arrives, one of the best things you can do is dress in layers to remedy the discomfort. This can be a pain for kids that hate getting dressed anyway, so you might want to make it a bit fun. For instance, you can have a competition to see who can get all of their layers on the fastest. Another option is to do a fashion show to see who can up with the most creative layers. No matter how you inspire your children to layer up, it will help keep them warm when the weather isn’t cooperative.

9. Spend Time in the Kitchen
The winter months are the perfect time to bring your children into the kitchen with you. As you cook dinner or bake, have them work on their homework, play board games, draw or work on other crafts. The heat from the room will warm them up, especially when they walk in the door from school. You can also have your children begin to help you in the kitchen. They can mix up items, knead dough or work on other simple kitchen chores. This will help teach the kids an important skill while allowing them to absorb the heat from the kitchen. It will also give you extra time to bond, so you can get even more joy out of the winter months.

10. Bring Outdoor Toys In
Often, children begin to miss their outdoor toys when it is too cold to spend very long outdoors. You might want to consider bringing in some of the toys to make the cold snap even more bearable. Items like toddler climb toys, playhouses and more can be brought inside and placed in most rooms. It might be cramped for a little while, but the kids will enjoy having fun on their favorite toys. Of course, you might also want to check out the toys before you place them in the home, just in case they have become the home of bugs that you might not want inside with you. You can also have a day for skating in the house. Make sure everyone wears their safety equipment though as there are more hazards inside than out.

Keeping kids warm and happy when the weather is extremely cold can be a real challenge, especially when school hasn’t been cancelled. These simple tips should help you keep your kids from feeling too much discomfort while waiting for the bus or trying to stay busy after school. You shouldn’t have to spend a lot of money on any of these tips, which will help keep your budget from going over the edge.

In case you didn’t know, January is National Soup Month, which makes it the perfect time to save some money on your grocery shopping. Soup can be a very filling meal during the winter months and will allow you to warm up your body as well. Of course, if you don’t know how to keep your soup menu frugal, you might end up going overboard on grocery shopping. These ten tips will help you make delicious soup at a fraction of the price, so you can get a head start in the New Year. You will also find the meals to be easier than ever to cook, which might inspire you to embrace the soup diet even longer. So, get ready to warm up by embracing National Soup Month.

1. Homemade Soup
There’s no doubt about it, canned soup is one of the easiest things to make when you’re feeling hungry and want something warm and comforting to eat. The only problem is, canned soups already put a dent in your budget if you plan on eating them all of the time. They are also loaded with salt and other ingredients that might make it a little harder for you to lose weight. Instead of jumping for the nearest cans in the grocery store, you should consider making your soup from scratch. This is actually a lot easier than it sounds and it will allow you a little freedom with your meals. Soups often follow a simple base and the rest of the preparation is simply adding in ingredients. You will find your soups more satisfying, healthier and a lot easier on your budget.

2. Seasonal Ingredients
Another great rule of thumb when it comes to soup, is to stick to seasonal ingredients. This is going to allow you to choose foods that are fresher and cheaper, which will help your budget out quite a bit. The best thing about eating seasonally is it will also help with your immune system. Shopping in bulk for these items shouldn’t be a problem either. Since you’re already saving money, you can freeze your excess items to be used when they aren’t in season. Seasonal ingredients doesn’t just mean produce either. You should shop seasonally for meats too. This might mean a lot of lean turkey soups during the autumn months, but you’ll learn to love the change in diet as the seasons change.

3. Utilize Your Garden
If you have a garden, then you’ve already done yourself a huge favor when it comes to making your soups. You can always plan you soups around the produce that is growing in your garden. During the winter months, try to pull from your frozen ingredients to help clear the freezer for the next blossoming season in your garden. Utilizing your garden will make your soup taste fresher and more delicious. Not to mention, it will be a lot healthier for you. You won’t have to worry about shopping organic or where and how your produce was grown. Best of all, these ingredients won’t cost you a cent, which will help make National Soup Month even more frugal!

4. Choose Filling Items
One of the main problems people run into is not feeling full when they eat soup. If you’re choosing soups just made from vegetables, then this can be one of the problems. You need to add a few filling ingredients to make the dish even more enjoyable. One of the best items to use, especially if you want to stick with a vegetable base, is beans. These amazing ingredients add a lot of dynamic to the meal while helping you to fill up faster. Meats and other proteins, like tofu, are another fine option for the meal. However, you may want to keep to leaner items if you are working on losing pounds this New Year. Finally, dumplings are another amazing way to add to a soup. You can use a wide variety of dumplings, including matzo balls or simply biscuits to help make your soup stick to the ribs. These ingredients shouldn’t hike up the price too much, especially if you’re working with beans or dumplings.

5. Keep it Simple
A lot of people think they need to go all out to impress when they make their own soups. However, soup can be a very impressive meal to eat even if it is very simplistic. Simple soups not only save you time while cooking, but will also help you to save money as you won’t have to buy too many ingredients. For instance, a nice tomato bisque will keep everyone feeling like they’ve just had a hearty meal even though it only calls for about 3 ingredients, depending on the recipe you choose to follow. Chicken soup is another great option, especially when you’re battling a sickness in the home. If you keep the recipe light, even weak stomachs will be able to handle the meal which could lead to faster healing. So, don’t look for the hardest soup in your recipe book to make, especially if you’re keeping to a budget.

6. Bulk Ingredients
When it comes to soup, there are actually many ingredients that work wonders in a wide variety of the soups that you may want to make. So, it is wise to buy in bulk when you plan on cooking soups fairly often. Some of the best items to purchase this way are onion, celery and carrots, which are actually base ingredients for many soups. Soups that don’t require these items as a base often have them as ingredients. Of course, these items can be frozen for use later if you don’t manage to get through the bulk items. Another great option to buy in bulk is broths. These items come in handy if you don’t have time to make your own and can be used for other recipes too if you don’t end up making a lot of soup. Bulk shopping will cut back on the price you pay for items while ensuring you have more than enough ingredients to make multiple meals.

7. Learn Alternate Ingredients
Let’s face it, sometimes we just can’t avoid making a soup that has some pricier ingredients in it. If you’re a fan of cream soups, then you know how much this one ingredient can add to the cost of a recipe. Of course, if you’re lactose intolerant or simply want to cut out some of the calories then your cream soup craving might be problematic too. Luckily, there’s lots of alternative ingredients to help you out in a pinch. In this case, you can use cauliflower for the creamy texture with fewer calories. Of course, you may run into a lot of periods in which you think you have all of the ingredients, but end up missing something important. Knowing alternative cooking solutions can come in handy and save you some money and that unwanted trip to the store. If you’re not sure where to start, simply look up the item you need to replace. It might take some experimenting, but you should find a great alternative for future reference.

8. DIY Broth
Buying broth can add to the cost of your soup and will give you a few added ingredients that you may not want in your all-natural soup. Luckily, you can always make your own broth from ingredients found in the home. For instance, if you have leftover chicken on the bone then set it to boil and before long you’ll have your own delicious broth. Tougher meats can also be cooked slowly in water and then the broth can be drained later on. Even cut up vegetable scraps can be used to slow cook into a delicious vegetable broth that will help make your vegetarian soup taste fresh and amazing. If you want to make larger batches of broth, then you might consider making your own bouillon cubes instead and freezing them to use later on. No matter what you choose, this will ensure you have tasty soup on a tight budget.

9. Freeze Leftovers
If you make a soup and have too many leftovers, then you don’t have to eat soup for days. This can really detour the family from wanting to eat soup, which might make your month of soups a bust. Instead, simply place the soup in bags or plastic containers. You can do this is a large group size or even individual sizes. Place these items in the freezer and you’ll be set for a worry-free lunch or dinner later on down the line. This won’t just save you money and prevent you from wasting food, but it will make your life a lot easier later on when you may not have the time to make dinner or lunch. These prepacked meals are also great to take for a lunch at work or school.

10. Utilize the Crockpot
Your crockpot can be your best friend when it comes to making delicious soups for the household. For starters, the crockpot will make cooking pretty much stress free. All you do is turn it on and add your ingredients and you’re all set. You can even have the crockpot going while you’re at work, so you can come home to a nice and tasty meal. Another great thing about the crockpot is it will keep your food warm all day when set to do so. So, you make your soup for lunch and people can eat it whenever they get hungry throughout the day. Not to mention, the crockpot will cut back on the energy or gas that you use to cook, which will save you money.

National Soup Month is a great way to explore a new variety of soups. This month will allow you to enjoy warm and hearty meals that are good for you and will help cut back on the calories you want to avoid. With these handy tips, you’ll also be able to save money while enjoying the delicious food you try. You may love soup month so much that some of the recipes may even become a staple all year long.

With the holidays over, you might be wondering what you’re going to do with all of the new things your children accumulated. If you can’t get rid of a lot of things to make room for the new, then you may find your child’s room is a total disaster zone. This can be a bit of a hazard, especially with younger children. Luckily, there’s a lot of cheap or free options that can help you keep your child’s room looking amazing. So, if you’re ready to get organized then you may want to check out these ten ideas that will be fun to try out with the whole family.

1. Reuse Shoe Organizer
When it comes to organizing toys, one of the best allies you have is actually a shoe organizer. These organizers come in all shapes and sizes, so try to utilize a variety if you can. If you already have one in the home, then you’re one step ahead when it comes to saving money. One of the best organizers to use is the type that fits under a mattress. These are perfect for your child’s favorite stuffed animals, bedtime stories and even a flashlight or other items of comfort. Best thing is, the organizer can be covered when your child makes the bed, so you won’t have to worry about it looking unsightly. Shoe organizers that fit over the door are perfect for dolls, action figures and even small stuffed animals. You might even consider placing toy cars in these. Other shoe organizers can be used to hold toy bins or even as a place to organize books or larger stuffed animals.

2. DIY Bags
One major problem when it comes to storing items is finding something to store them in. Sure, you might have bins and boxes, but these can take up a lot of room and often don’t organize the items you’re looking to organize. Instead, you might want to consider making your own bags. These are very simple to make without having a high sewing skill. They also can be made with cheap fabric or even old clothing that you have lying around the house. If you want to get intricate, you can add a name strip over even a peek hole, so children can see what’s in the bag. These bags can be hung up on hooks at your child’s level, placed in a closet, drawer or toy box, or even stuffed under the bed. It’ll also help encourage your child to keep the room looking nice and organized.

3. Magnetic Strip
Another simple way to stay organized is to consider adding metal strips to your child’s wall. These strips can be placed in decorative patterns or in rows to make them look decorative. Magnetic strips can come in handy with a wide variety of items. For instance, metal cars can simply be placed on the strips for easy storage. The clean up for this toy will be so easy kids will have fun doing it. You can also attach magnets to certain toys, so you can hang them up too. Art supplies, books and other simple toys are perfect for this, and will add a fun touch to the room.

4. Recyclables
Your recycling bin can actually come in handy when it comes to storing some toys. One of the best items to use is actually a cereal box. You can cut a hole in the box to allow it to store larger puzzle bases, coloring books, folders, or even items like racecar or train tracks. If you buy coffee in large containers, rather than bags, then these truly come in handy for small items. For instance, you can separate your child’s LEGO sets, store doll accessories or even keep track of puzzle pieces in these handy containers. Oatmeal containers are great for putting away dolls, like Barbies, or smaller action figures. This can help keep the room looking tidier while protecting the items from plants. Finally, if you have lots of toilet paper or paper towel rolls then you can cut them and stack them to make a great storage space for toy cars.

5. Clearance Bins
Of course, if you don’t want to spend a whole lot of time making your own items, or you need specific items, then buying bins will come in handy. However, it is usually best to hold out until the items are on clearance. You can usually find a great deal on these items after the spring when cleaning season is over. If you don’t mind colored items, then you can always shop after a holiday for larger bins that are great for toy boxes. Make sure you know exactly what you’re looking for though, so you can grab the item whenever you see if hit the clearance aisle. This should help with organizing all sorts of toys. If you want to add a fun element to the bins, then paint them or decorate them with tape and stickers. This will help kids remember what is supposed to be stored in the specific bin.

6. Hanging Baskets
If you don’t want to place shelves in your child’s room, or you simply don’t have the money to spend on them, then hanging baskets are a brilliant alternative. You can find baskets for a dollar or less at most discount stores. All you have to do is place a nail or other hanging alternative and place the basket on it. Then, all sorts of toys can be placed in the baskets. Of course, you should experiment to see how much weight the baskets can hold, so you know how to organize the items you place in them. If your child has a lot of stuffed animals, then you might also want to consider hanging a larger basket from the ceiling. This can be done with strong string or rope and will add an element of décor to the room.

7. DIY Toy Box
Toy boxes can actually be one of the most expensive methods of storage in the home. So, many people tend to choose to go without them in order to save money. Luckily, there’s a lot of great DIY toy boxes that can help organize your child’s room. For starters, you can use a simple cardboard box to store items. It won’t last as long as a regular toy box, but you can always replace it later on. If you’re feeling ambitious, then you can always build a toy box on your own. All you need is to purchase cheap wood, some nails and wood glue to make it happen. If you want to customize the box even more you can add special pockets inside to fit smaller items. You can also paint the box to suit your child’s interests.

8. Refurbish Furniture
Believe it or not, one of your best options when it comes to toy storage is utilizing some of the old furniture you have collecting dust. For instance, old shelves can be lined with bins to keep your child’s toys out of sight and easy to find. You can also transform an old desk into a storage device. The top is great for larger toys like dolls houses or action sets while drawers can be used for smaller items. You can also place a larger bucket or other storage device for stuffed animals or other large toys. If you don’t have items around the house to use then you may want to check out thrift stores. You can always work with whatever you find to give your child a unique storage area.

9. Play Table
When it comes to younger children, play tables are one of the best ways to keep things organized and a little less messy. The tables allow children to play on the table, so toys won’t wind up in the floor. This will help prevent injury and frustration, which ensuring toys won’t get broken. You can easily make your own play table too, so you won’t have to spend a small fortune on a themed table. One of the easiest ways to build one of these tables is to use items like egg crates for the legs. Place these items with the opening of the crate facing outward. Then, you can nail or glue a piece of plywood, an old door or other table top options on top of the crates. Once everything is sanded down, you can then paint it and present it to your child. You can even round out the corners for even more safety. The egg crates work well as storage areas too, which will give you even more reason to build one of these tables. Of course, there’s many other ways you can build a play table so look around for some plans that suit your needs.

10. Animal Storage
Stuffed animals can be one of the biggest pains when it comes to storage. More often than not, they end up on the bed, which means they get thrown on the floor every time bedtime rolls around. There’s a few great options for your child’s stuffed animal collection though. One such example is the animal zoo, which has become very popular on hobby websites. These animal zoos are made out of simple items like wood, plastic pipes, elastic and so on. The storage item is build so that children can pull out the toy they desire from the gaps in the item. Plus, it creates a cute look that children will adore. If you don’t want to put a lot of effort into your stuffed animal options, then you might consider hanging up a small hammock. Toys can be placed on this to keep them off the floor and bed.

Storing your child’s toys may seem like an endless battle, but with these ten tips you’re sure to find a little hope. These tips will allow you to save a lot of money on your toy storage, which is certain to make you happy. After you work on these ideas, you may find your child’s room stays cleaner for a while longer, which will give you a little more time relax and enjoy the post-holiday vacation.

Every year, people come up with a New Year’s resolution to help improve on their life. In most cases, these resolutions revolve around creating a healthier lifestyle. However, more often than not, the resolution is abandoned before the end of the first month of the year. Sometimes, sticking with a resolution takes up more time than people have to offer. Luckily, there’s a few resolutions that you can partake in throughout the year that are simple and won’t require you to give up too much time. These resolutions will help you lead a healthier lifestyle too and will ensure you feel confident about starting fresh in the New Year. So, get ready to have some fun as you don’t have to wait to try out these ten ideas.

1. De-Clutter
We live in a society that really promotes materialism, which causes our lives to be filled with clutter. It has been scientifically proven that clutter actually makes you feel worse than you should, which is a good reason to find some time to declutter. This is especially true after the holidays as we accumulate so much stuff that it’s hard to make space for it, at times. This doesn’t mean you have to go through your entire home and get rid of everything. Instead, take a look around a single room each day and choose an item that doesn’t bring you joy. If it’s something that is useless to your life, then donate it or recycle it to make something that will improve on your life. You may find that some of the things you’ve thought were important really aren’t. After time passes, you will feel like your home has less clutter, which will help relive some anxiety. If you aren’t comfortable with getting rid of some items, then box them up. You can always revisit them in 6 months to rotate them with some of the items you do have out. This will help ease you into the transition.

2. Plant Seedling
Gardening is one of the most relaxing things you can do in your life. However, in the winter it is nearly impossible to garden in most areas. So, you might want to start planting and caring for seedlings. You can do this in many ways. You can buy supplies to plant the seedlings in specific planters, or you can use items from around the house, like KCups to plant your seeds. These seeds can be placed on the windowsill during the day, so they get plenty of light without being exposed to the cold. When spring comes, they will be ready to be replanted outside. These plants will also grow into healthy fruits and vegetables, which will help you accomplish your healthy eating goals.

3. Explore Workouts
Getting in shape can be a huge challenge. However, the way many people go about workouts can really work against their progress. More often than not, people will buy a workout machine or dedicate their efforts to running and other simple exercises. After some time, doing this can get pretty boring, which is often what detours people from carrying on with it. By exploring workouts, you won’t just be able to freshen up your exercise routine, but you will also learn what your body enjoys doing. This will also give you a wider range of things you can do to suit a variety of workout needs. For instance, you can find something that is great for strength training, cardio and peace of mind. You also might find something that truly brings you joy. The more you try, the better off you will be.

4. Clean
When the Chinese New Year arrives, it is traditionally considered to be lucky to begin the New Year with a clean home. You might want to adapt this principle into your own New Year celebration. Cleaning the home is a good way enjoy a fresh new start to the year. Although surface cleaning is a great place to start, you might want to think about some of the areas that might not get cleaned as often. For instance, you may want to see what the back of your refrigerator looks like. Cleaning this area won’t just help with your power consumption and the functionality of your appliance, but will prevent fires too. Another great thing to do is swap out the air filters for the New Year. This simple and quick change will give you fresher air that will make you feel healthier and more comfortable.

5. Change Your Style
Sometimes, the best way to make your New Year feel fresh is to begin with a new look. You can accomplish this in many ways, but one of the cheapest is to color your hair or try out a new cut. You can accomplish this at home or a salon, depending on how much money you have to play around with. If your hair isn’t on your agenda, then you might begin by weeding out some of the old clothes in your wardrobe. You can start out by buying one article of clothing a month to help boost your wardrobe back up. The new styles will make you feel like a new person and will help make better impressions over the year. –

6. Practice Mindfulness
You’ve probably heard that practicing mindfulness is one of the best things you can do in order to improve our world’s poverty crisis as well as to improve the environment. However, it isn’t always clear how you can practice mindfulness in your every day life. There are actually numerous ways you can do this though, which can make a huge difference with very little effort on your part. For starters, when you go to buy a brand, all you have to do is make a quick internet search to learn more about it. Many brands use child labor, pay poor wages or practice animal cruelty. You might also want to look up brands that are doing their part to help combat global problems. For instance, Cheerios is working to help save the bees. After looking up some brands, you might actually feel the need to consume less, which will certainly save you money. Of course, you can practice mindfulness by creating less waste too. Use recyclables for crafts, storage and more. Try not to take plastic bags from grocery stores. Shop at stores that allow you to purchase items without packaging. It doesn’t take much to make a huge difference in the world.

7. Unplug
One major problem with today’s world is we are always connected. This might be a great year to take some time for you by unplugging from technology for an hour or so. You can do this once a day or week to help work on yourself. When you power down, you should use the time to focus on your health. Try reading a book or writing in a journal to help boost mental function without being in front of a screen. You might also use this time to work out, enjoy a hobby or play a board game with the family. No matter what you do, make sure there is no technology on around you. It might be tough at first, but after doing this a few times you may feel more relaxed and at peace with yourself.

8. Start a Savings Jar
For more people, saving money is a resolution that isn’t just a want but a need. However, as time passes, it gets increasingly hard to save money. From spontaneous meals out with friends to the new pair of shoes you have to have, it might begin to seem impossible to make the savings you resolved to. There is one way that you will at least put back a little during the year. That is, to create a savings jar. You may want to begin pulling out cash each week to pay for your lunches, drinks and more. Whenever you have change from these transactions, simply place it in the jar. You will be surprised as to how fast it fills up. If doing this isn’t an option, then you might want to make it an incentive jar. For instance, if you would like to stop swearing then place an amount in for each swear word you say. Soon, your bad habit will be in check and you’ll have money saved up.

9. Ditch a Bad Habit
Getting rid of bad habits is one of the top resolutions around. For instance, smoking, eating out and getting coffee from a café each day, can really harm your health and your budget. That is why it is one of the best ways that you can start the New Year out on a fresh note. Generally, bad habits are what hold many people back in life, so by working to get rid of one of yours you will be broadening your horizons while opening up new options. For instance, quitting smoking will give you a lot of extra money to play with and it will improve your quality of life. Soon, you won’t have to think twice about going for a run or even enjoying a movie without having a nicotine craving. Eating out can be curbed too, which will give you more money for healthy meals while helping you lose weight and feel healthier. There’s a few tricks to help you curb the habits, so check out a little research to see what works best for you.

10. Dedicate Time to Education
It doesn’t matter how old you are, one of the best ways to start your year out well is to dedicate time to furthering your education. This doesn’t mean you have to dive into a calculus class if you don’t want to. Instead, find something you’re interested in and look for a course to satisfy this need. You have a lot of options to choose from when it comes to classes too. For instance, you can take a cheap course at your local college. If you can’t afford to do this then look online to see if you can find a free course to work with. There are so many ways to satisfy your needs even if you don’t want to take a course. For instance, you can check out a text book at your local library or look up tutorial videos on how to do certain tasks. By choosing a learning method that suits your needs, you’re sure to grow immensely during the New Year.

Making a fresh start for yourself doesn’t have to be an expensive or time consuming endeavor. With these ten tips, you should be able to find the perfect way to help you make the changes you’ve hoped for without making you feel hopeless. Soon, 2018 will be your most successful year yet, thanks to your dedication to change.

The holidays are one of the worst times for coping with a hangover. With so many opportunities to enjoy a nice drink, the body begins to protest a little before it is all said and done. New Years is one of the worst periods of time for dealing with hangovers. Luckily, there’s a lot of very cheap remedies that can help you get through this trying aspect of the holiday season. With any luck, you won’t have to fight off a hang over on the first day of the year thanks to these amazing remedies. Best of all, they’ll all suit your frugal budget. In fact, you might not even have to do any shopping to enjoy the amazing remedies listed here. So, enjoy your nights of celebrations, as your mornings won’t look as grim when you give these quick remedies a try.

1. Drink Water
Without a doubt, one of the best ways to ditch a hangover is to actually start drinking water as soon as you wake up from a night of drinking. In fact, if you start drinking water before you hit the sack you’ll be even better off. Alcohol is a diuretic, which means it not only forces you to get rid of the liquid that you intake while drinking, but it also pulls water from the rest of your body. This is what causes you to feel terrible, particularly when it comes to the morning after headaches. So, giving your body a bunch of new fluids will knock out the symptoms quickly. Not to mention it will be helping with the overall health of your body.

2. Coconut Water
Coconut water is definitely one of the most expensive items on the list, but if you have some lying around the house then you’re going to be in for a treat after drinking. Coconut water actually helps the body to absorb water faster, which means you’re going to be rehydrating a lot quicker than you would with just water. This doesn’t mean you should drink coconut water all morning. Instead, have a glass first thing in the morning and then work on rehydrating with simple glasses of water. The water with stay in your system longer, which will help the body recover faster. You may even notice that your headache will start to fade after the glass of coconut water.

3. Herbal Teas
Nothing will help you to feel comforted after a night of drinking quite like a cup of tea. Of course, you might want to skip over your traditional black teas though, as an herbal tea is going to help you recover a bit more. For instance, a nice ginger tea will help to settle an upset stomach, which can make recovering a lot easier. Not only will it allow you to rehydrate faster due to the calm stomach, but it will sooth you too. Peppermint is also a great option for an upset stomach and will help you feel the warmth of the season. Of course, if you’re a caffeine drinker then you might want to enjoy a herbal tea mixed with a black tea, so you don’t have to worry about getting a headache due to lack of caffeine.

4. Oatmeal
A lot of people migrate towards a greasy breakfast after a night of drinking, but this can really make the problem a lot worse. Grease helps the alcohol stay in your system longer and will add to your upset stomach. One of your best breakfast options is to a grab a nice healthy bowl of oatmeal. Oatmeal moves through the body slowly and provides lots of natural energy that will help you recover from the night. You can even improve on the taste by adding a touch of honey to sweeten it. Honey also is a great way to ditch a hangover and improve on your immune system. If honey isn’t your thing then dress up your bowl with a banana or even a few dates. These help get rid of the hangover faster as well, so by adding them you’ll have an even more powerful breakfast to combat the issue at hand.

5. Smoothie
Speaking of fruit, a smoothie is one of the best ways to get rid of a hangover. Whether you’re blending one up for breakfast or a snack, you can really pack a punch when it comes to ditching the hangover. As mentioned, bananas and dates are great to add into the smoothie because they will help you get rid of the hangover faster. You might also consider fruits that help hydrate the body. For instance, coconut, watermelon, kiwi and so on are great additions. You might consider apples for their fiber and oranges for their vitamin C content. Another great add in is coconut water, if you have it. Adding grains to the mix will help make the hangover go away faster while giving you a lot more energy to move through the day. Don’t forget, leafy greens are also an amazing option when adding to your smoothies, especially if you’re looking for a healthier blend.

6. Soup
Some say soup warms the soul, which may be true when you’re dealing with a hangover. Soup is one of the best ways to get liquid into your system while also adding much needed salt back into your diet. Two of the best options are the traditional chicken noodle soup, but if you’re feeling like stepping outside of the box then miso is a great option too. Of course, you can enjoy just about any soup you like if you’re feeling sick from your hangover. Just make sure you drink the broth, so you can begin the healing process. Of course, if you want to really improve on the way you feel then you might choose an option with lots of healthy items like vegetables to help the body get lots of nutrients. If you don’t feel that you can handle soup, then plain chicken broth will help do the trick.

7. Pickle Juice
Pickle juice isn’t just a craving for pregnant women. Many people crave pickle juice after drinking for a very good reason. This juice is loaded with sodium, which will help you absorb water a whole lot faster than you typically would. Plus, your body does need a certain amount of sodium to function and the pickle juice will help bring this amount back into the body. Vinegar is another way to help the body feel better and can ease your stomach pain rather quickly. Apart from that, cucumbers are packed with essential vitamins to help the body feel back to normal faster.

8. Coffee
Since coffee is also a diuretic, many people tend to avoid it whenever they are experiencing a hangover. However, if you tend to drink a cup of coffee every single morning then you shouldn’t skip out on it just because you’re experiencing a hangover. Of course, this doesn’t mean you should go right to the coffee pot as soon as you wake up either. Try to drink two or three glasses of water before you drink your cup of coffee. This will help get water back into the body, so you can feel better as you enjoy your cup of coffee. Skipping out on the coffee will only lead to a caffeine headache, which will make you feel even worse. You should continue drinking water after the coffee though to ensure you won’t become dehydrated again.

9. Herbal Supplements
If you don’t have a lot of time on your hands, then you might want to consider taking an herbal supplement to help you get rid of your handover. These tend to be pricier items, but if you already have them in your medicine cabinet then you’re good to go. A good start is to consider taking milk thistle or ginseng. Both of these supplements actually help to remove toxins from the body, which will have you on the road to recovery rather quickly. If you are having problems with your stomach, then taking some ginger can do the trick in a hurry. Another great option for a headache is turmeric. This supplement actually helps with inflammation which is a great way to combat a headache as well as body aches. These supplements combined with water should have you on the mend, so you can head to work or have more fun.

10. Sleep
When it comes down to it, sleep is one of the best things to do for your body when you have a hangover. If you can, wake up and rehydrate and maybe get a little food on your stomach. Then, go straight back to bed and sleep off all of the aches and pains. Sleep will naturally heal your body, which will allow you to feel rejuvenated in no time at all. Of course, not everyone has the luxury of sleeping on a work day. If you can, try to combat your aches and pains with water or other natural remedies and then get in a nap whenever you have a lunch break, or you get off of work. This should help your body bounce back, so you can start the New Year right.

Dealing with a hangover is never much fun, especially when it comes to the holidays. Luckily, these simple ideas should help you get your life back on track, so you can feel great in the New Year. With these tips, you’ll never feel like you need to go to the bottle of medicine as soon as you wake, which will lead you to a healthier lifestyle in no time at all.

Soon enough, the holiday will be over and it will be time to put away all of the holiday decor. This can actually be an expensive endeavor if you want to protect your beloved decor from getting broken or ruined by the elements throughout the year. Luckily, there’s quite a few ways that you can store all of your items securely without actually having to spend a small fortune on storage items. These ten tips should give you a great start, so you can enjoy your amazing decor year after year. The best thing is, these tips should also cut down on the amount of space you need to store all of your supplies, which will help keep the home a bit more organized during the off-season.

1. Don’t Toss the Wrapping Paper
One of the most important things you can do during the holidays is save all of the wrapping paper you accumulate. This doesn’t mean you have to make sure the kids don’t rip it to shreds when opening their gifts. Rather, just pick it up and place into a bag or box until it is time to actually take down the holiday decor. Once the time comes, pull out the wrapping paper to use it to wrap up ornaments in order to give them a little extra protection. This can also be used on larger items that go into boxes. When all of the items are wrapped up, then toss extra wrapping paper into the box to add even more cushion to the box. This should help keep everything in good order and will prevent you from wasting all of that paper. Even your wrapping paper rolls can come in handy during this season. You can use these to wrap up garland or lights, so you don’t have to deal with tangles next year.

2. Re-Use Shipping Items
In this day and age, it is almost unavoidable to not have something delivered to your home. These boxes can really come in handy though, so you don’t have to let them go to waste. You can put all sorts of decor items in them to help you pack away your items with ease. These boxes are perfect for items that have worn out boxes and need a more secure place to be stored. If you don’t need a box for something, you can always cut up the cardboard to use as ornament separators in another box. Longer boxes can even be used for all of the wrapping paper you acquired over the season. This should help make stacking your storage items a breeze, so you can keep your holiday decor in a minimal amount of space.

3. Hang Wreaths
Wreaths can be one of the most expensive items when it comes to holiday decor, they are also one of the most delicate. This can be a major problem when it comes to storage. If you simply stuff your wreath in a box, then you may end up with a squished wreath that doesn’t look very good next year. However, if you hang up your wreath then you’re going to have a beautiful wreath to display later on. All you need to do this is a clothes hanger and some plastic. The plastic can be anything from a trash bag or clothing bag from the dry cleaners. Simply hang the wreath over the top of the hanger then place the plastic over the hanger. You can then hang your wreath on a hook in the garage or in a closet. If there are delicate items on the wreath, then you might consider taping them down before putting the wreath away.

4. Wrap the Tree
A lot of people get sick of putting the ornaments on the tree just to take them off again a few days later. If you’re one of these people, then there is a pretty awesome storage hack for you. All you have to do is leave your tree completely intact. When you’re ready to store it then wrap it up in a thick plastic wrap. You can buy this at most home improvement stores for a fair price. Make sure you wrap the tree tight though. Once it is secured, all you have to do is store it how you normally would. Then, when next year rolls around, place the tree in the area you want it displayed and take off the plastic carefully. Everything will be as you left it. This is handy for places with little storage too, as you won’t need lots of boxes for ornaments.

5. Use Recycling
Rather than going out to purchase items to store your decor, you can probably find lots of great options in your home. Recycling is one of the best places to find items to use. For instance, you can use toilet paper and paper towel rolls to put away your garland and lights. This will cut down on the huge pile of lights you have to store and will keep you from dealing with tangles next year. Another great option is to use apple and egg containers to store your ornaments. This will already give them more protection and makes it easier to stack them into a box. Shredded paper can also make these items more secure. Oatmeal containers and other items are also great for oddly shaped decor or shatter proof ornaments. These items are a breeze to stack and will help make storing items a cinch.

6. Fold Up Ribbon
Ribbon is a major part of the holiday fun and it can be pricey too, so don’t let it go to waste. Unfortunately, ribbon that isn’t still on the spool can take up a whole lot of space and it can even become a tangled mess if it’s not stored properly. Instead of creating a mess to sort through next year, there’s a few simple ways to remedy the problem. You should always fold up ribbon when its not on a spool. This will help keep it beautiful and will prevent the tangling issue from happening. Lightly fold the ribbon so you don’t have to deal with creases, then place a piece of tape on the ribbon to prevent it from unwinding. Once you finish this, toss your ribbon into a gift box, gift bag or a shoe box for storage. You never know when your ribbon collection will come in handy.

7. DIY Ornament Box
If you don’t have an ornament box handy and you’re not okay with placing your ornaments in a simple box, then there is a great alternative. You can easily make your own ornament box for next to nothing. There are actually many ways to go about this. One option is to wash all of the plastic cups you used for the holiday meal. Then place a layer in a box. Each cup can hold one ornament securely if the item is breakable. You can place smaller items that aren’t breakable together with ease. When you have your first set in the box then create a whole new layer. You can place the cups into the box until it is full. If you want to add even more protection, add paper into each of the cups. You can also craft your own box using cardboard and other items that you can salvage from your wrapping paper.

8. Wrapping Paper
Wrapping paper can be a real inconvenience to store. If you don’t choose a secure place it often falls in the floor and can easily get damaged. There are many great ways to store wrapping paper though, which will help you save money on storage and the supplies you’ll need for next year. For starters, you can place your wrapping paper in a waste basket to help keep it all in one place. You can also stick other item in with them, so the storage space doesn’t go to waste. Another option is to stick them in a coat bag and hang them up. This is perfect if you already have wreaths hanging up as it will help you stay more organized. Of course, another easy option is to store them the box with your Christmas tree.

9. DIY Tree Bag
One of the best ways to store you Christmas tree is in its original box; however, after years of use and being moved around, your box might not be able to store your tree properly. So, when it is time to call it a day, there are many frugal options to choose from. One of the best ways it to make up your own tree bag. There are many options when it comes to this craft, but one of the easiest is to use tarps to create the bag. You can find tarps for next to nothing, which will help you save even more money. Best of all, the tarps will help protect your tree from the elements and are a breeze to store.

10. Shop Clearance
Of course, if you prefer to use items that are actually marketed for storing your Christmas decor then you still don’t have to spend a fortune on the items. Generally, after the holidays are over, particularly New Year’s, you should be able to get most of these items marked down for clearance. This will help you save on a wide assortment of items too, so you can really customize for your needs and storage space. You may even want to stock up on some of these items to use for other decor too as you never know when they’re going to come in handy.

Putting up your holiday decor can really be a pain, especially if you’re not organized. These ten tips should help you find the supplies you need to store everything securely while allowing you to store it away properly. This should make the process a whole lot easier when it comes to putting up the decor and taking it out again in the upcoming year. Best of all, they won’t put a dent in your tight budget.

It is time to finally say goodbye to autumn and to welcome in the winter solstice. Many people often have this day come and go without recognition, but if you would like to help celebrate the season there are many ways for first timers or even recurrent celebrators to help make this occasion special. With all of the holidays happening at once, you might not feel like you have the budget to add in another one. However, this holiday can be one of the most frugal you’ll find. It will also help you and your family feel more in tune with the planet. So, get ready to enjoy the winter solstice on the December 21st without worrying that your budget can’t keep up.

1. Learn about cultural celebrations
In many countries, the winter solstice actually brings lots of holiday fun and traditions. You might want to look up some information to see what kind of cultural traditions everyone shares on this day. You may even want to try a few out if you have the time or budget. There are often festivals to help bring in the winter months too, so it might be cool to watch some of the amazing shows that are performed at these. Some cultures have interesting stories surrounding their winter solstice celebrations. For instance, in Australia, they tell the story of Krampus, which might be a fun story to tell around the campfire to older children. You will be surprised by all of the fun information that you find though, so make sure to embrace it in order to add fun to your occasion.

2. Rediscover Santa Claus
Believe it or not, but Santa Claus didn’t get his start when the Christmas holiday began. Rather, he had been around for many decades prior to this holiday’s existence. You can find a variation of Santa Claus in so many cultures too, so you might want to look into all of the amazing information available on the holiday icon. Doing this can help children see even more magic in the holiday as it will show them Santa Claus is connected to people across the globe and he has deep roots in the past. It will also help to bring him to life with an actual history of the man. You might be surprised to read that one of the earliest adaptations began with the Pagan’s celebration of the winter solstice.

3. Enjoy a Yule Log
Yule logs are one of the most used traditions for this holiday. The logs are designed to last all night long, which helps light up the home while adding extra warmth to your evening. This can even cut down on your heating costs, which will be a nice gift to you as winter moves in more rapidly. Generally, it is tradition to save a piece of the yule log to help light next year’s log, so be careful when cleaning out your fireplace. You can actually make your own yule log, if you want to save money in this manner. There’s many tips online, which can help you. Of course, if you don’t want to spend money on the log or you simply don’t have a place to burn it then there are lots of yule log videos to help get you through the night. Apart from that, you can also make a yule cake to help create a delicious treat that represents the tradition.

4. Lights Out
Another great tradition for this holiday is to actually turn out your lights for the night. This is to help everyone appreciate the light the sun brings in each day. Of course, you don’t have to sit in the dark all night long. This can be difficult in today’s world, especially if you have children that are afraid of the dark. So, you might want to collect your candles, flash lights and other sources of light to help make the home comfortable. The important thing is to ditch electronics and other forms of light for the night. You can play games and talk to keep busy. If you want to add even more tradition to the evening, then you can always make solstice lanterns too. This makes great décor and will keep the kids excited for the holiday. There’s lots of ideas for this craft online too, so have some fun with it.

5. Enforce Bonding Time
Like most holidays, the winter solstice is a great time to spend with family. This is a great holiday to allow everyone to unwind from their personal life and have everyone reconnect as a family. Try pulling out some board games to help make the hours fly by. You can even make lots of great snacks together and share stories about what has been going on in your lives. Since many people don’t celebrate winter solstice, this is a great time to reconnect with just your immediate family, as most holidays involve extended family and friends.

6. Decorate the Christmas Tree
The Christmas tree is actually another Christmas tradition that began with the celebration of the winter solstice. This holiday tradition also began as a pagan form of celebration as people would decorate trees with food in order to win the favors of the spirits associated with winter. So, if you haven’t already done so, the winter solstice might be the perfect time to decorate your tree. If you want to add more tradition to this holiday fun, then you can make sun ornaments out of orange peels and other simplistic supplies to represent the love of the light. You might also consider making other natural ornaments.

7. Candle Ceremony
The candle ceremony is another popular option for those who want to celebrate the winter solstice. This is another frugal option too as all you need to participate in the ceremony is candles. You can make your own candles, use what you have or buy some cheap ones from a department store. You will need one large candle though that will be lit first. The ceremony begins when night falls. The lights in the home are turned out for a few minutes so that everyone can embrace the darkness that winter brings. Then, someone lights the large candle in the center of the table. From that point on, everyone takes turns lighting the smaller candles. Each time a candle is lit a blessing for the new season or year is given. If you want to add even more to the ceremony, then you can complete it with a song. There are many traditional songs you can find online if you’re not sure where to start.

8. Go Caroling
Back in the day, many pagans would celebrate the winter solstice by wassailing. This was the process of caroling in the fields to ward off spirits. However, in this day and age people tend to go caroling in order to spread holiday cheer. Of course, not everyone has fields to sing in, so it is just easier to go door to door bringing joy to the community. You can choose a wide variety of songs to sing while you’re out, which can include Christmas songs as well as those simply involving the season. All you have do is have some fun with it. It will also help kill some of the hours you planned on spending with your lights out.

9. Stay Up All Night
A lot of people who celebrate the winter solstice like to stay up all night in order to embrace the full length of the time. To them, seeing the sun come back in the morning is a true gift of the season. So, you might want to consider this to enjoy your winter solstice too. Of course, if you have to work the next day or have small children then this might not be an option for you. Instead, you may just want to have everyone wake up before the sun comes up, so everyone can watch the sun rise together. In order to make staying up all night worth the effort, you may want to plan a lot of activities to help the day fly by. Games, snacks and more can help time pass quickly. You might also want to use this time to do some star watching. There are lots of beautiful astronomical occurrences during this time, but make sure you stay warm while watching them.

10. Have a Feast
The winter solstice is a great time to have a feast as a way to celebrate. You don’t have to go all out like you might do during other holidays though. This might overwhelm the body and the budget. Instead, place fresh fruits and vegetables on the table for people to eat. You might also add seasonal foods and nuts to help create a balance. Of course, homemade breads are also a real treat during this time. Another popular item to add to the mix is mulled wine or even mead. Hot cocoa or warm teas might be a great idea for younger attendees.

Celebrating the winter solstice is a great way to have some fun while connection you to the planet. These ten ideas will help you begin your celebration while ensuring you don’t spend a fortune on the holiday. The events may even help you feel more connected to the world you live in, which might spur ideas as to how to make it a better place.

No matter how hard we may try, it feels like it is impossible to get all of our holiday shopping finished by the time the big day arrives. May it be a last-minute Secret Santa at the office or an unexpected gift from a friend or family member, there are many reasons why it is hard to stay on track of your shopping. Luckily, there’s quite a few last-minute gifts that will impress others without breaking your budget. These ten items are sure to make you feel like you handled unexpected gifts like a boss, which will make your holiday shopping even more rewarding. So, don’t panic next time you realize you’re short a gift or two because these ten ideas will help you get through the holiday crisis.

1. Gift Card
If you want one of the quickest options for someone you’re not quite sure about, then a gift card can really do the trick. The best thing about gift card is the amount of options you have to choose from. If you’re not sure what to get then you can always grab something for coffee or food, as so many cafes and restaurants offer gift card options. There are also cards for department stores, game stores and so much more. Of course, you can also keep this gift close to your budget. They sell gift cards for as low as $5, so you won’t have to reach too far, especially if your office has a low cap on the gifts you can purchase. A small gift card can also top off a gift you may have already planned out, such as a mug.

2. Snack in a Jar
A snack in a jar is one of the best ways to put creativity to work. All you really need to begin this craft is a clean mason jar and a lid. Once you’ve decided what you would like to do then grab the ingredients and pour them so that they create a cute design. One of the best options is for a cookie in a jar. This will allow you to separate the flour, sugar and colorful ingredients, like candy, to create lovely layers. Of course, you can do this for hot cocoa, brownies and other desserts. If you don’t have a sweet tooth on your list, then consider a ramen in a jar treat or even packing Chex Mix and other savory treats. When you have your snack made and secured in the jar then dress up the exterior of the jar. You can add ribbons, reindeer antler, elf feet and more. Decorating after the development of the snack will help keep glitter and other craft items out of the food portion of your gift.

3. Decorative Plant
If you’re looking for a great gift for a colleague or even someone with a green thumb, then a decorative plant is a great option that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. One of the biggest trends for these plants are succulents, which don’t emit a strong odor and won’t take up too much space in an office. These can easily be found in home improvement stores or even department stores, so they will suit your last minute needs. These plants can even be decorated to suit the holidays with fun decals or even simple craft supplies. Of course, you can always go with a classic decorative plant too, which you can find year-round. These plants shouldn’t cost an arm and a leg either and can be picked to suit the person you’re shopping for.

4. DIY Painted Portraits
If you know someone that likes art or has kids, then a painted portrait is a great way to give this season. You don’t have to be a master at the world of art in order to pull off this gift either. All you need is a digital photo. You can place a variety of filters on it to make it suit the painting style that you want. This is great because it allows you a little freedom with your art. Two of the most common options are pop art and water color though, so if you’re looking for an easier task then one of these methods is the way to go. Once you have the filter added on to the picture then print it out. All you have to do is go over the printed image with paint to create a fun look. Of course, you can get even more into this craft if you have more time and experience. When your painting is dry then put it in a frame and wrap it up for the lucky recipient.

5. Personalized Mug
Personalized mugs are another great gift that are simple to do. Plus, they can suit your colleagues well and work perfectly for friends and family that love tea or coffee. You can make a personalized mug with your own craft supplies if you are in a real rush. This can be very inexpensive too. All you need is a blank mug, ceramic paint and a sealer. You might also print out or make your own stencil to help make the mug look professional. Of course, if you want to go the extra mile and have a bit more time to work, you can easily have a mug made up for the recipient. This will cost a bit more, but you’ll have a mug that will look great. In order to go the extra mile with your gift, toss some tea bags, coffee beans or hot cocoa mix into the mug for good measure.

6. Bath Bomb Set
Soaking in a tub is a great way to kick back and relax. That’s why a bath bomb set is going to be one of the best ways to give someone on your list a frugal gift in a hurry. There’s lots of bath bombs you can purchase at a reasonable price. These bath bombs tend to be of good quality and can help ease your shopping pains in a hurry. Of course, if you want to save even more money or you simply have a lot of people to gift to, then you might want to make them on your own. You will be surprised as to how easy this is and you can do it with basic household items and essential oils. Once you have your bath bombs made up, you can even make the packaging cute. For instance, you can put them in a customized bag or decorated mason jar.

7. Soft Blanket
One of the best things about winter is curling up with a soft blanket when the weather is cold. If you know a coach potato or just someone who is always cold, then this is a great option to choose for a frugal and fast gift. Since it is practically winter, you’re going to see a wide variety of blankets in just about any department store you walk into. Luckily, most of these blankets won’t cost you much at all. As a matter of fact, you can find some for $5 or less if you know where to shop. These blankets come in a wide variety of colors, prints and characters too. If you want to spend a little extra on someone then you can always find a blanket with a cute cartoon or geeky character to make things even more fun. This blanket is sure to be a hit with most people, particularly if they love to binge watch shows or read when the weather is frightful.

8. Baked Goods
Another great way to warm the hearts of anyone on your list is to add a special baked good under their holiday tree. This will be very frugal on your end and will allow you to put a little love into your gift. You might want to ask around and find out what kind of treats the recipient may want to eat. Of course, if you have a specialty then this might be wise to work with that, so you know you’ll be giving out something that you’re good at making. This is a fun gift to work with because the options are endless. You can make cookies, brownies, cakes or a combination of all three. When your goods are done then place them in a decorative tin, bag or box. This gift will be a special surprise if given when the items are still fresh or even hot, so you can really push the boundaries on this last minute gift. Plus, if you already had the supplies in your pantry, it won’t cost you anything extra.

9. Alcohol
If you’re celebrating with friends, then one simple gift that will make them happy is their favorite kind of alcohol. This doesn’t mean you have to go out and purchase an expensive bottle. Rather, choose a frugal option that you know they will enjoy. This is especially great as a gift if you’re headed to a party for a gift exchange. It can help cut back on the hosts expenses and will brighten someone’s day. You can even go the extra mile by making up a mixed drink starter to help the alcohol go further. Best of all, you can have fun with the alcohol bottles or cans. For instance, you can turn them into cute reindeers or even make them into holiday trees. This will add a festive touch on your gift and will ensure they are enjoyed even more.

10. Re-Gift
If you’re in a pinch and you have something lying around the house that you know someone is actually going to enjoy then go ahead and re-gift it. This will not only clear up space in your home, but will help you save money when it comes to buying for others. Re-gifting is probably one of the easiest ways to handle a crisis situation during the holiday season as it only takes a few minutes to re-wrap and tag a gift that was probably given to you by someone that hardly knows you. Although it is easy to feel guilty about re-gifting, chances are many of the seasonal gifts you receive won’t last long enough for someone to realize you gave it away anyway. It will also give someone else a chance to enjoy an item that you won’t get as much pleasure out of.

The holiday season can be really hard to navigate through when it comes to all of the spending we have to do. It is even harder when an unexpected gift turns up and you want to practice good etiquette by returning the favor. These ten ideas should help you get out of your bind without forcing you to spend a small fortune on gifts. Now, you can keep your cool when something comes up, because you’ll have a few frugal ideas to help you get through the occasion with ease.

Creating gingerbread houses is a classic way to have some fun with your whole family while celebrating the holiday season. You can really have a lot of fun making a gingerbread house, but if you’re not careful it can really drain your budget. There are lots of ways to keep your gingerbread house on the frugal end of the spectrum though. This should help you have a lot more fun with your family project while making the activity carefree. You may even want to make this a family tradition, so you can enjoy the fun year after year. These ten tips will help you save money and enjoy your gingerbread construction a little more, so get ready to show off your creative side!

1. Ditch the Kit
During the holiday season, you can find gingerbread kits in just about any department or grocery store that you go in. Kits are pretty convenient and will give you everything you need to get started on the process. They may even be an enticing option for first time builders. However, you can easily make your own items from scratch for the price that you would pay for a kit. This will allow you to also make healthier choices when it comes to your gingerbread house as you won’t have to use items with preservatives or an overabundance of sugar and sodium. Kits tend to be filled with items that won’t be eaten too, which is a waste of money. You’re better off choosing your own candy and working with your own dough and icing if you can. This will also give you more freedom to explore your creative instincts as you work without a set guide.

2. Scratch Made Ingredients
Buying premade ingredients for your gingerbread house may seem faster and easier, but you will get a lot more out of the process if you make your own items. When it comes down to dimes and nickels, making your items from scratch will end up saving you money. It will also show your children that you can make delicious items without reaching for a packet of premade dough or a jar of icing. This can be a very valuable lesson, especially if you are teaching healthy eating habits. If you’re worried about making dough from scratch, then you’ll be relieved to know there are many simple recipes online to choose from. You can even look for more advanced options later as you begin to perfect your craft. You can even alter your recipe to suit the desires of the household. Homemade icing is also a cinch to make and will allow you to create different colors, levels of thickness and more. Making your own ingredients gives you lots of wiggle room to work with too, which will make the activity a lot more relaxed.

3. Use Scraps
When you use your own dough and other supplies then there’s no reason to toss all of the scraps that you have leftover. Sure, the gingerbread house is the main show, but you can easily construct extra items to bring the design to life. If you have dough leftover, then you’re in for a lot of fun. For instance, you can make gingerbread men to go along with the house using a simple cookie cutter. You can also turn this classic design around to make reindeer. You might also consider making some gingerbread trees to add even more flavor. You can also turn cooked pieces into rocks and other decor with just a little icing work. You can also use the extra icing to help secure these items or to make rocks and other fine details. You can really have fun with this and it may take your original design in an entirely different direction, so just go with it and have some fun.

4. Leftover Candy
You don’t have to go out and spend a bundle on candy for your design either. Luckily, the holiday season is filled with occasions that kids receive an abundance of candy. Instead of using new candy, then grab a few items leftover from the Halloween stash and use them to decorate. Usually candy is fine at this age, but if you’re worried you can always freeze it to help it stay decent until gingerbread season rolls around. You might also hold onto some of last year’s Christmas candy. If you don’t plan on eating the gingerbread house, or at least the candy decor, then this won’t inhibit the design at all and will help cut back on money substantially.

5. Ditch the Gingerbread
If you’re not a fan of gingerbread, or you simply don’t want to dedicate a lot of time baking, then there’s lots of other options you can use. For instance, you can use simple supplies like paper bags, regular paper or cardboard to build a faux gingerbread house that you won’t have to worry about spoiling. This can be a great tradition for the whole family as you can build a gingerbread village that grows a little every winter. All you need is simple craft supplies like straws, glue, paper, pom poms or anything else that you think will make your gingerbread house look incredible. You will be surprised by what your kids come up with as they work with these supplies. You might find that ditching the gingerbread will give the household more creative freedom. Plus, you have more room to work with if a mistake is made.

6. Think Outside of the Box
There’s no rule saying that your gingerbread house actually has to be a house. Instead, you can always come up with ideas that will suit the interests of your household. For instance, some parents with younger children might consider creating a Thomas the Tank Engine gingerbread house. You can print out templates online to construct the train, so all you’ll have to do is work on painting the face with icing. Of course, you can also channel your inner fandom. Some fans have recreated the Death Star, TARDIS and so much more. You don’t even have to travel too far from the holiday theme as a large gingerbread tree is both fun and easy to make with your whole family. Your imagination is the limit here, but don’t be afraid to make mistakes as these items will be harder to make in most cases. However, if you’re up for the challenge, you’ll get more for your money if you decide to make the project even more fun and exciting for the whole family.

7. Enter a Competition
If you want to get more out of your gingerbread house experience, then share your creation with a competition. Some local communities will actually host these, but if you’re not lucky enough to have one nearby then you can always enter a competition online. There are some free competitions if you want to keep things on the frugal side, but if you have a lot of faith in your gingerbread house then you can always pay an entry fee in hopes of winning a larger prize. There are some major competitions that you can enjoy too. These are great to check out even if you don’t want to enter one of the competitions with your own gingerbread house.

8. Give as a Gift
Your gingerbread house doesn’t have to take away from your holiday gift giving budget as the house itself can actually be presented as a gift to someone special. Most people will love to see the hard work you put into their gift, plus it will provide a delicious treat for snacking on for quite some time. By giving the gingerbread house as a gift, you will get to experience the fun of decorating your home while allowing yourself to share your creativity with others. If you really want to save money while sharing some gingerbread with loved ones, then consider making littler gingerbread houses. These can be passed out to neighbors or taken to a nursing home for an extra special treat during the lonely season.

9. Bake Sale
Another way to make your gingerbread house experience frugal is to present your creations to a bake sale. During this time of the year, many communities, schools, churches and more love to put on bake sales to help earn money with all of the delicious holiday treats. If you join in on this bake sale you can always earn your money back for the price of supplies and maybe even a little more. Of course, you can also donate your gingerbread house so that it can earn some money for a charity. Either way, you will have a little more fun with the experience and will be able to earn some money back on your project.

10. Eat the House
Of course, one of the best ways to get your money’s worth out of your gingerbread house is to actually eat your creation. You might want to give it a day or two to enjoy the decor, but if you can’t hold your horses then go ahead and eat it. The gingerbread makes a nice delicious treat during this time of the year and the kids are certain to love all of the icing and candy. Of course, you might want to save your creation for a family gathering so that everyone can enjoy your handy work as well as the delicious flavor.

Making a gingerbread house can be a great experience to share with your loved ones. With all of the creativity and fun involved, you’re sure to find this project one of your favorite aspects of winter. These ten tips will not only keep your gingerbread house frugal, but will also allow you to get a little more out of the experience.

Hanukkah begins this Tuesday, so you might already feel like you’re undergoing crunch time when it comes to planning your holiday celebration. Luckily, there’s still plenty of time to get a gathering together for family and friends if you choose to. If you’re on a tight budget, then you’re in luck as there are many ways to keep your guests entertained without forcing you to spend a whole lot of money. These ten tips will help you plan a great event, so you can keep the celebration going all eight days without feeling your budget enter crisis mode. Now, all you have to do is focus on the celebration as you won’t have to worry that your budget won’t stretch far enough to keep everyone entertained.

1. Embrace Music
Without a doubt, music is one of the best ways to celebrate just about any occasion. Hanukkah is a great time to enjoy your favorite traditional songs that you have probably sung since childhood. One of the best things you can do is designate a time for everyone to break out in song, so all can enjoy their favorite holiday songs. You can even teach the next generation all of your favorites, so they will be able to pass down their favorite songs one day too. Music also brings on the urge to dance which is another great way to spend your time at a party. If you don’t want to play your own music, there are plenty of religious or holiday themed playlists you can choose from online at no cost to you. This should liven up your party and ensure young and old will enjoy the occasion. Of course, you may want to move around your furniture to make sure this activity is safe for everyone to enjoy in the home.

2. Cooking Session
If there is one thing that brings a smile to everyone’s faces during the holiday season, it is certainly the presence of food. Many people enjoy the aspect of cooking though, which is a great way to spend time. If you have friends and relatives that have their own traditional dish then you might want to invite them to cook it in your home, rather than have them simply bring it over. People can share their recipes while cooking them too, which will be a great lesson to many. Plus, this opens up a fun area for people to chat and talk about their favorite traditions and memories. You might have to set an oven schedule and use extra tables for prep work, but this shouldn’t be time consuming or expensive.

3. Set Up Games
Games are one of the best ways to keep everyone as busy as can be during a party, so you won’t have to stress about boredom setting in. There is not only the option to play games, but people can also watch too. Luckily, there plenty of traditional games you can set up in order to keep everyone busy. For instance, the kids will love playing dreidel for hours, especially if you have plenty of gelt to go around. You might also set up some non-traditional games to give everyone a little something to do while they wait their turn for other games. You can even transform your favorite games into a Hanukkah theme to keep the fun going for hours.

4. Storytelling
One way to keep the crowd engaged is to allow people to tell stories to the crowd. Of course, one of the more popular options is the Hanukkah story, which is great for the kids. It is important to share the message, especially to the younger children who may not know the reason why they’re celebrating. You might also consider sharing family history or having people talk about their favorite Hanukkah memories. There are so many options to choose from that people are certain to find eight days worth of stories to share with those around them. This can help increase knowledge of your lineage as well as to make you feel closer to your religion and heritage. You never know what might come up as so many people have stories to tell from some of the most grim areas in history which are important to hold onto, while others will be able to liven the room with laughter with silly stories from their past.

5. Craft Table
Making crafts is a great way for guests to spend time, especially when it comes to the children. So, you might consider setting out a craft table with all sorts of supplies. If you’re low on supplies, then a lot of hobby stores are offering incredible deals right now because of the holiday season. There are lots of crafts that are fun and easy to make too. For instance, you can set up an area for children to make their own dreidels to play with. Another option is crafts like making a Star of David for decoration. Guests can even place their crafts in bags and give them out as gifts to some of the other guests. The craft table should be busy throughout the celebration, so have a little fun with it. There’s lots of ideas online if you’d like to set up specific crafts for people to make.

6. Puppet Show
Another fun option, especially for the kids, is to host a puppet show. You can have the children make their own puppets at the craft table and then construct a story to share with the whole party. It can be a lot of fun seeing what the children come up with, especially if you schedule the shows by age groups. Adults might also want to get in on the fun too. You can make puppets out of socks, cardboard or paper which will allow you to have fun with all of the details you want to put into your puppet. One idea, as far as storyline goes, is to present the story of Hanukkah in puppet form. This should engage the kids for quite some time and might even be a hit with the adults too.

7. Bring Your Own Wine
Wine can be a major part of Hanukkah meals, which can really make the price add up when it comes to your gathering or gatherings. If you want to save money on this aspect of the celebration, then ask your guests to bring their own wine. You may even find that some people bring a few bottles since they won’t have to provide wine for their own gathering. This will allow everyone to enjoy the type of wine they like anyway, which can be a tough feat to do when you have many people to provide for. This alone should make the mood even more joyous.

8. Make Gelt
Gelt can be a huge part of the holiday, especially when it comes to the children. Gelt is an important part of the dreidel game and can be a delicious dessert for the whole crowd. If you buy gelt in bulk you can save money on it, but you might not get the delicious taste you desire. Gelt can easily be made at home at a low price too. If you’re okay with not having the golden coating over your gelt then this is especially up your alley. There’s so many recipes for gelt that you can try out a whole lot if you’re up for it. This should help provide your guests with something that makes them smile. You can even put the gelt in goodie bags so that you can send your guests home with a special treat. The gelt can also be used for games, which might inspire people to play more.

9. Give Gifts
Gifts can be a really fun aspect of the holiday, but they don’t have to cost an arm and a leg. You might ask people to arrive without a gift. Then, during the celebration they can work on the gelt, crafts or even a puppet to give to some of the other guests. This will not only make your activities fun, but will add extra meaning to them. People can even draw names to see who they should give their gift too. Your guests might love this so much that it will become a tradition each and every year that you host a gathering.

10. Light the Menorah
Of course, if you’re having a Hanukkah gathering then you won’t want to forget the process of lighting the menorah. This can be one of the most important aspects of the celebration for many of your friends and family. You should incorporate your family’s traditions into this aspect of the celebration, but you might also ask others how they celebrate. To make things more exciting for the kids, you might have them make their own menorah that they can pretend to light in order to bring even more meaning to the holiday.

Hosting a Hanukkah celebration can be really stressful if you’re on a tight budget. These simple tips will help you organize numerous activities to keep everyone satisfied with their experience. You might even feel that some of these ideas bring everyone closer together, so the holiday will have an even greater meaning.

Winter vacation is just around the corner, which means trying to keep your kids on their best behavior even when the boredom sets in. This can be challenging whether you’re traveling or waiting out the cold days in the house. There are a few ways that you can keep your children on Santa’s nice list though, without getting in the way of their holiday fun too much. These ten tips will give you a few ways to remind them of their behavior, while encouraging good deeds without the reward they feel Santa brings. So, this holiday, you won’t have to worry about your kids getting too crazy as these tips will help keep everyone feeling happy during the holiday season.

1. Elf on the Shelf
Many parents aren’t excited about the Elf on the Shelf concept, because they feel as if it is teaching their children that it is okay to be spied on. However, Elf on the Shelf can be a whole lot of fun without the spying aspect. You don’t have to approach the Elf on the Shelf as a tool for your children to stay on their best behavior. Rather, you don’t have to tell your children that the elf is monitoring their poor behavior at all. Instead, tell them the elf likes to tell Santa about all of the good things that they do. You might even explain it as the elf is measuring or collecting Christmas spirit in each home. This should help encourage children to want to do good deeds and to avoid doing bad things without feeling nervous. Plus, the Elf on the Shelf can be a whole lot of fun for parents as it allows them to embrace creativity in new ways. If you want a few ideas then there’s lots of great ones online to try out with your children. You might even encourage your children to make gifts, clothing or accessories for their elf to raise holiday spirit and to ease some of the boredom of winter break.

2. Donate Old Toys
If your child has a pretty long holiday list, they already have too many things, or you know you have limited space, then now is a great time to encourage your children to donate some of their old toys. During this time, thrift stores and other charities could always use toys to pass out to children in need. So, in order for your children to make room for new items they can sift through the stuff they don’t use anymore. They don’t have to get rid of sentimental items, but they might want to give away items that haven’t been played with in months. You might sit down and explain that not all children are fortunate enough to get lots of gifts, so by giving away toys they will be adding holiday magic to the children who won’t get a lot.

3. Offer Rewards
Another way to avoid your children hitting the naughty list is to offer them rewards that aren’t presents. Toys and other items will be forgotten over time. So, one way to make your child feel good about the deeds they’ve done is to offer a certificate. This can be hung up throughout the year to remind your child how amazing it feels to do good. You don’t have to wait for Christmas morning for children to receive such a reward either. Instead, you can easily mail a special letter from Santa that shows appreciation for their good behavior and offers recognition for some of the good behaviors your child exhibited throughout the year. For instance, you can offer a reward for a good attitude or keeping up with chores. Children will take more pride in their behavior and will work hard to show the best of their personality.

4. Good Deeds Chart
Helping your children get in the habit of doing good deeds is always a great thing to do no matter the time of the year. However, during winter vacation, you might want to encourage this behavior to keep your children busy. One way to help kids keep track of their deeds is to make a chart of nice things they can do. For instance, you can come up with some great ideas for the household. Chores that help out others like helping a younger sibling with a task or even simply reading to them can be one of the easiest ways to start your children off. After they get the hang of things, you can add deeds that are outside of the home. A good example is to have them help out a grandparent with household chores. You can even expand with community projects like cleaning up trash in the park. Younger children can even take part by offering hugs.

5. Get Crafty
Making crafts is one of the best ways to keep kids busy during the winter break. Not only does it keep children busy, but it also allows them to keep their minds going when they’re not in school. Creativity is a great way to teach children to think out of the box and can improve holiday cheer. One way to enjoy crafts with kids is to come up with holiday themed crafts. Ornaments are a fun way to start and will make your tree look amazing. You can even make them out of recycled items like toilet paper rolls if you want to save even more money. Another fun idea is to make wreath, which can easily be done with tutorials. These wreaths can even be passed out to nursing homes, hospitals and more. Apart from that, you can have the children work on holiday cards to send to loved ones.

6. Santa Letter
If your child seems to be having a hard time staying on track, then you might want to consider sending them a letter from Santa Claus. You can download fonts that will make the letter look more authentic, which will help your children feel the magic of the season. In the letter, you should offer words of encouragement, rather than using Santa Claus as a threat. You might tell your children they have worked very hard in one manner, but Santa would encourage them to work harder in another area. You should also send praise so that the letter doesn’t feel negative. This will inspire kids to work harder. You don’t have to base your letter around holiday themes either. Instead, concentrate on the important areas like overall behavior or school work.

7. Monitor Screen Time
Keeping track of your child’s screen time is important all year long, but during the holidays you can really encourage good behavior by only allowing children to watch certain shows. There are many cartoons and children’s shows to choose from now; however, not all of them will offer your children moral reinforcements. There are an abundance of shows designed to encourage empathy, compassion and emotional health though. These shows can help children realize there is more to life than materialism, which will actually help the holiday season become even more meaningful for them. You will see your child’s outlook change and their willingness to behave and help others will increase.

8. Teach About Traditions
You don’t have to spend all winter break working on celebrating your own religious holidays. Although this an important and fun aspect of your lifestyle, teaching children about other cultures and traditions can be an important way to cultivate acceptance and compassion. There are many holidays around this time of the year, so pick out a few to share with your children. Of course, if you don’t want to work with other religions you can actually teach holiday traditions from around the world. Every culture has their own way of celebrating, which can be interesting. For instance, in Germany, a pickle is hidden in the tree and the first person to find it gets to open the first gift. In some Scandinavian countries, a book is opened on Christmas Eve and the rest of the day is spent reading. You can find so many fun customs online. You might even incorporate a few into your own holiday celebration.

9. Donate Time
One of the best things to do to keep children on their best behavior while showing them that good deeds are important is to help them donate their time. During this time of the year lots of organizations are in need of help. Churches, for instance, do a lot of work to help feed the hungry and to offer clothes and gifts. Some churches also have special youth groups that go caroling to help cheer up those in nursing homes or hospitals. Visiting nursing homes and hospitals are another way to give back. Teenagers may even be able to volunteer to help share the holiday spirit. These activities help children realize that the holidays are more than just gifts, which is a great lesson to learn.

10. Create a Schedule
If you’re trying to keep your children’s behavior in check then one of the best things to do is set up a schedule to follow during winter vacation. When school is in session, most children fall into the routine and thus don’t know how to behave. However, when their schedule is taken away there is a sense of anxiety and boredom. So, one of your best tools is to actually keep the kids going on a routine that is as close as possible to what they were doing in school. This might mean no late mornings in bed for you, but you will be grateful for their good behavior because of the routine. You might also schedule activities that ensure children use their brains so that easing back into school won’t be as much of a challenge.

Winter vacation can be a real challenge for children. Life can get pretty chaotic with new activities and a sudden change in their routine. This can lead to poor behavior which could land children on the naughty list. These ten ideas can help you keep your children on track while bringing more meaning to the holiday season.

When it comes to trees, many people can’t get over the look of a real Christmas tree in their home. However, there are many reasons that prohibit people from having a real tree in their life. May it be allergies, environmental consciousness or simply the type of home you have, it can be a let down not to have a real Christmas tree in the home. However, there are many ways you can give your artificial tree a look that will make you have to double-take. These ten tricks to give your fake tree a real appearance and smell will save you time and money while bringing you even more holiday cheer. So, get ready to have a little more fun while you decorate this year.

1. Shop After Holidays
Without a doubt, one of the best ways to work on your tree is to actually shop after the holidays. Your artificial tree and the decor you put on it can really be a game changer when it comes to how your tree looks for the holidays. One of the first things you should look for is a better tree after the holidays. You can actually find trees that have the appearance of a real tree, which will help cut back on the work that you have to put into it. This can also allow you to buy supplies that help you mask the fact that your tree isn’t real. Usually you can get most supplies for 50% or more off which can really help you rake in the savings.

2. Add Girth
One of the most common problems when it comes to artificial trees is their lack of girth and spottiness. This really isn’t a hard problem to fix though. The best thing you can do is spruce your tree up to make it look larger and fuller. One of the best ways to do this is to pick up some garland from the store. Most retailers will sell garland made from the same material as artificial trees, so it should blend right in. You can usually get this garland for about $5, which won’t hurt your budget too much. When you get your garland, strategically wrap it around the tree before you place your ornaments on it. You should also fluff out the branches as much as you can, this will give your tree a less spotty appearance. After a little TLC your tree should look a lot more realistic.

3. Ornament Order
A major problem that occurs with trees of all kinds is the gap that appears between the branches. Even though real trees have this problem too, it does make an artificial tree more obvious. So, one of the best ways to combat this problem is to organize your ornaments. You should start by applying the larger ornaments to the tree. These can strategically be placed in the large gaps, which will give the tree a fuller appearance. Once you manage to do this then all of the smaller ornaments can be placed on the tree to add the festive touch you desire. By organizing this way, you will be able to reorganize the tree to suit your style too, which will make this hack even more convenient.

4. Consider Garland
Even if you try out the garland for the interior of the tree, you may also want to add some garland to the outside too. You can buy this in all shapes and sizes to suit your needs too. There is the traditional, colorful garland that has been a hit with trees for decades now. However, if this doesn’t suit your taste then you might want to consider a more natural approach like using popcorn or cranberries. You might also consider adding even more style to the tree inspired garland that you purchased for the interior of the tree. If you have any leftover, try adding pinecones, Santa figures, fake snow and more. This garland can be used to cover up large gaps while still offering style to the tree that everyone is sure to love.

5. Cover the Base
The base of your tree is pretty much a dead giveaway as to if it is real or fake. So, your best option here is to cover it up as soon as you are ready to present your tree. A tree skirt is probably one of the best steps you can take to cover up the tree’s base. However, the plastic part of the tree will still be visible. In order to hide this, you can create a log appearance using façade or other supplies. However, you can easily just cover this aspect of the tree up with larger presents if you can. If you don’t already have presents for under the tree, then you can easily make fake gifts for decorations. You might also consider buying a train or other distractions that will draw the eye away from the inner base and closer to the actual tree.

6. Reconsider the Topping
A lot of people consider the tree topper to be one of the most important elements of the tree. Traditionally, a tree or angel is placed on the top, which looks great. However, when you have an artificial tree, this can really draw the fakeness of the tree to the eye. Often this area is sparse or doesn’t have the strength to hold up such a decor item. You might want to consider using something that is going to take up more space without weighing in as heavy as classic toppers might. One great option is to use a large bow to do this. You can make your own using the ribbon of your choice, which is sure to make the tree even more personable. Another fun option is to consider a top hat in order to give a snowman appeal to the tree. You can even buy these in a light plastic which make the top even lighter for the tree. Of course, your creativity is the limit here, so have a little fun with it.

7. Consider Natural Ornaments
One way to have a little fun with your tree while making it feel more natural is to use all-natural ornaments. You can make your own garland with popcorn, chestnuts, cranberry or anything else that strikes your fancy. This is a fun craft to do with the whole family too, which is sure to help raise the holiday spirit in the home. Another fun option is to use pinecones. You can simply place these in the tree, or you can turn them into Santa Claus, reindeers and other cute animals or holiday figures. If you want to get even more creative, then you can use sticks to make adorable little reindeer. The options are endless here, but if you’re shy on ideas then look online. You’re sure to find more than enough to make your tree look natural and beautiful. If you’re short on time, then you can always find these ornaments in your favorite stores too at a reasonable price.

8. Lighting
Most people add lights to their holiday tree, which can really give away the fact that your tree isn’t real. There are many options that can help you create a more realistic appearance though. For instance, if you shop LED bulbs then most of the lights aren’t so bright that it will immediately highlight the fake appearance of the needles on your tree. These lights are also more energy efficient, so you will get even more savings out of them. Another thing to look for when it comes to your tree’s lights is the color of the cord. Some lights have white, brown or black cords which can throw off the look of your tree. You should look for lights that have a green cord. It will blend into the tree and might even help add to the girth of the tree and cover up empty spaces.

9. Add Scent
One of the major appeals of having a real tree is the fresh and beautiful scent of the tree. So, your artificial tree not putting off an aroma can lead many people to come to the conclusion that it is, in fact, fake. However, this problem is actually very easy to remedy. There are actually special scent sticks that can be hung on the tree, which will fill the room with aroma. These sticks usually come in a green color too, so if you hide them towards the core of the tree or behind your garland, then your tree will feel even more realistic. If you’re not a fan of the scent sticks, then you can actually buy ornaments that are infused with essential oils to put off the same scent. You can even make these at home, which is sure to save you lots of money. If you don’t want to deal with ornaments, then use some essential oils and water in a spray bottle and spritz your tree.

10. Shop Efficiently
If you’re really interested in making your artificial tree look and feel like the real deal, then you may want to shop wisely. There are actually trees that are specifically made to look real. These trees typically aren’t found in your average retail store though, so you will have to go out of your way to find one. One of the best things you can do is shop online as you will get to see reviews of the trees you are looking at. This can help you make a wiser decision. If you can find a tree that looks just like your favorite type of holiday tree, then you should have decades of use out of the tree as long as you store it properly.

Putting up the holiday tree can be one of the best aspects of Christmas. So, don’t feel down because you don’t have a real tree to enjoy this year. Instead, get crafty and put a little extra love into your artificial tree. You are certain to love the changes you see and may feel thankful that you won’t end up stepping on dried pine needles for months after the holiday is over.

There’s only a few more shopping weeks left until Christmas, which means December is the time to really buckle down when it comes to deals. You’re going to see a lot of awesome items at a great price this month, but that doesn’t mean you should shop for everything on your gift list. Toys, perfumes, holiday foods and other must-have items are certainly a great buy during this month, but you will want to avoid these ten items if you possibly can. So, make a list and check it twice because you won’t want to pay more for less this December.

1. Televisions
If you missed out on some of the television deals for Black Friday and Cyber Monday, then you might be out of luck for a little while. Sure, December will still hosts some deals because they want to continue on with their sales during the shopping rush. However, you won’t find a deal that will actually save you huge on the price tag of your TV. If you absolutely have to have a television for the holiday season, then shop around wisely. Otherwise, you may want to hold out and see what January brings to the table. Typically, you will find some of the best deals of the year right around the Super Bowl as many people want the best possible picture to watch the game, especially if their team is playing. This means you will only have a few weeks to hold out. Sometimes, newer models hit the markets too, so you might be able to get your hands on the 4K TV that you want.

2. Gym Memberships
Many people begin to think about their New Year’s resolution in December, which often means wanting to order a gym membership to help you reach your goals. During this time, most gyms won’t be running sales because business can be really slow with everyone busy with holiday events with the family. If you want to get the best possible deal, then head to the gym as soon as January rolls around. The gyms will bank on people flocking in to buy a full year’s membership in order to meet their resolution. So, you will be able to find some major savings. You should also wait on gym equipment too, as the same rule applies for these products as well.

3. Jewelry
It’s pretty much hard to escape the commercials for all of the special jewelry that is released during the holiday season. Each jeweler tends to have their own trend that people just can’t get enough of. These items tend to not be on sale throughout the month of December though, so buying one for the holiday season will set you back more than you should pay for it. Most of these items will be discounted in price right after the holidays, so if you can’t live without one of the trends then just wait until they are discounted later on. Other forms of jewelry also maintain their price during the holiday, especially when it comes to diamonds. These are classic gifts, plus many people tend to propose during the holiday season. You should find sales on these items later on in the new year.

4. Calendars
It seems pretty logical to go out and buy a calendar, so you can plan out your upcoming year. However, if you want to save money then the logical way to go about it is to actually wait until January begins. Sure, it might put you a little behind when it comes to planning the early days in January, but you can always use the excess days that are added to the end of every calendar anyway. As soon as the first of the year begins, you will see prices on calendars dropping substantially. So, this is the perfect time to stock up on calendars and planners of all shapes and sizes.

5. Winter Gear
If you’re lacking in winter gear or apparel, then now is still not the time to jump in on this item. Technically, winter doesn’t even begin until late in the month, so finding sales on the items for it will be touch and go. Some stores will try to push some jackets and fashion items, but you probably won’t get to see a huge discount on the price tag. Winter gear like skis, goggles, sleds and more also won’t find huge price cuts either. Your best look for these items will be in March when winter slowly fades out. You might have to wait a little longer for ski and snowboard gear though, as these items are usually discounted when the slopes begin to close down for the year. So be patient and you will be able to grab the top fashion items at a low price. If you’re looking for good clothing deals, then you might want to consider shopping the fall selection, which should be hitting the clearance rack this month.

6. Furniture
The holiday season tends not to be one of the hottest times for furniture sales, so most stores don’t offer the best deals on these items. If you’re in the market for some new furniture, it might be wise to hold out until January if you possibly can. During January a lot of stores will begin to clearance some of their items in order to make room for the new stuff that will be coming in soon. Some salesmen will even cut you an even bigger deal to help get their sales off to a good start, so they can meet their quotas a little faster. Many stores will also have sales particularly for the beginning of the year as many people want a fresh start and find that furnishing rooms can give them this much needed feeling.

7. Linens
If you want to grab some new sheets or towels for your home, then now is not the time to do it either. In January, many stores actually take part in a huge sale called the White Sale, which encompasses all sorts of linens. You will be able to stock up on luxurious sheets, towels, duvets and more for a price that will have your head spinning. Best of all, you can even stock up for next winter with flannel sheet sets and huge knit blankets. Of course, if you love themed items then all of the holiday items will be on sale during this time too. It usually hits the sales rack right after Christmas, but as the month of January creeps in you’ll find these items decreasing in price even more.

8. Hot Toys
December is one of the best months to buy toys, there’s no doubt about it. However, if you’re looking for the hottest toys on the market then you may be looking at an entirely different story. These toys generally fly off the shelves, which makes retailers question whether or not they should offer them at a lower price. In most cases, stores will only offer cents lower just to maintain their competitive nature. Some of these toys are so impossible to get that people will begin to sell them at a ridiculously high prices. So, it might be best just to step away from these items. Instead, shop for items you know your child is going to play with for a considerable amount of time. If the child still has a desire for this item, then shop for it after Christmas when they hit the sales rack at a regular or discounted price.

9. Cars
If you’re thinking about getting someone a new car for the holidays, then you might want to rethink this high-priced item. During the month of December, sales on cars are pretty low because most people are shopping for other items. You won’t have to wait long to get a new deal though as New Year’s sales are some of the best in the year. You will find some of the newer models on sale as well as used cars that are still in good working order. A lot of salesmen want to start off the new year on a good foot too, as they must meet quarterly and yearly goals. So, you might be able to talk your way into a good deal if you can hold out for just a month longer.

10. Holiday Decor
You might be tempted to shop until you drop on holiday decor throughout the month of December. It doesn’t matter what holiday you’re shopping for, as the decor items will hit the sales aisle as soon as the holiday is over. However, if you can hold out until January then all of the items you hoped to grab will be in the clearance section. The longer you wait for the item, then the better the chance that you will get it at a remarkably low price. You might even search online to see if your favorite decorative shops have any sales that you can’t pass up too. This will leave you stocked up for next year, so you’ll have all new items to admire.

December is a great month for shopping, so make sure to take advantage of the savings. However, these ten items might leave you feeling buyer’s remorse if you go ahead and shop for them this month. Overall, you will be able to save big by waiting, so make sure to take advantage of the items that are actually on sale.

With Thanksgiving come and gone, you’re probably already getting in the mood for some Christmas spirit. One of the more time-consuming aspects of this holiday is getting the cards together to be mailed out. Christmas cards can even be pretty pricey if you don’t budget correctly. Luckily, December 9 is actually designated as Christmas Card Day which will give you the perfect time to set aside to get your cards ready to go. These ten tips will not only make your Christmas Card Day a bit easier, but will also allow you to save some money on your holiday greetings. So, get ready to have some fun with your holiday cards to kick off the joyous season.

1. Use Last Year’s Stock
One of the easiest ways to get past spending a small fortune on this year’s cards is to actually pull out the leftovers you had last year. These cards can be used again to help prevent you from having to buy hordes of new cards. Even if you only have a few cards leftover, they can still come in handy. For instance, if you receive a card you weren’t expecting then you can return the greeting with one of last year’s options in order to be polite. This will even allow you to have more leftovers to put back this year, which is certain to make life a little easier when Christmas card season rolls around next year.

2. Self-Photography
Sending out portraits of the family or just the children, is quite a trend when it comes to the holiday season. However, spending money on a professional photographer can make your pictures skyrocket in price. Luckily, you can always use your own skills to take your family’s photo. There are a lot of techniques you can use to pull this off, which will certainly help make your holiday picture even more fun. You can even use your personal phone if you don’t have a professional camera to work with. These photos can even be printed at home, or inexpensively at a department store to keep you from spending even more money.

3. Check For Freebies
During this time of the year, many of the popular photo printing websites offer a wide assortment of freebies to pull in business. Usually, these freebies will just be for a few cards, which won’t help you completely satisfy your entire mailing list. However, if you do take up offers from all of the websites offering freebies then it should help put a dent in the list. You can always send out these higher quality cards to close friends and family and then supplement the rest of your mailing list with a cheaper option. Also, these websites tend to offer free or great deals on photo print outs too, which will allow you to simply slip in photos without having to pay the high price of a printed card.

4. Go Digital
There’s no rule saying you have to use snail mail to send out your cards this year. Instead, you might consider making a digital copy of your card. You can create your own in a pain program, customize a premade card or even decorate a family photo. If you don’t want to put in a lot of effort, then simply scan a card you want to send out and save it as an image. Then, you can email the card or post it to your social media page to save even more time. This method will cost you next to nothing too and will have your holiday cards sent in a fraction of a second. You might consider printing a few cards out for those that may not be tech savvy though.

5. Cut the List
Another problem with the holiday cards is people think they have to send them out to every person they know. There is no set rule forcing you to send out cards to your third cousin twice removed or the person you worked with five or six years ago. So, feel free to cut your list to close friends and family. This will allow you to spend the bare minimum on your cards and will ensure those closest to you will receive your greetings. This will also cut back on the amount of time you spend thinking about what to say to those you never see. Before long, you won’t want to add new people to your list as this method of dealing with Christmas cards will add tranquility and fun to the process.

6. Send Postcards Instead
Another simple option is to consider post cards opposed to actually mailing out full sized cards. Postcards are very simple to make and will cost you less when it comes to supplies. Of course, you can also buy postcards at many retailers, which will also cost less than the card option. One of the best things about mailing out postcards is they actually cost less money. You can go to the post office and purchase a special stamp for these cards, which is certain to put even more money back into your holiday fund. Postcards can be great if you plan on traveling this year too, as you can share the location your family is enjoying with friends and family. Even if you can’t find a festive postcard, you can always use your artistic skills to make them look festive with basic craft supplies.

7. DIY Cards
For many families, making your own cards is a holiday tradition that always pleases. You can easily start this process by using all of your craft supplies that you already have in the household. These supplies can actually go far, even if they simply include crayons and paper. Of course, if you want to go all out then you can find all sorts of holiday sales in your favorite craft stores. As soon as Thanksgiving is over most stores want to clear out their Christmas stock as soon as possible. So, you will see some sales up to 50 or more percent off. You can also add coupons to the mix to help you save even more. If you have children, then you might want to look up fun crafting ideas to help you out. There are lots of cool ideas online and you can always customize them to suit your needs.

8. Hand Deliver
When it comes to holiday cards, more often than not, the most expensive aspect of this endeavor is actually mailing out the cards. Buying tons of stamps can really cut into your budget and your time, given the length of lines during the holiday season. So, if you have a lot of people living in your own town, or you visit those that live outside the town often, then you might want to make a point to hand deliver the cards. This adds an extra special touch to your cards that will actually warm the hearts of those that receive them. If you have a tight knit community, then you might even consider Christmas caroling as you deliver your cards. This can add charm to the occasion and will bring a smile to a few faces. Plus, utilizing this method of delivery will ensure that your cards won’t get lost in the mail, which is a bit of a relief after putting so much time and effort into them.

9. Print Cards
If you don’t have a lot of time to put into your cards, then you can always look for free options online. There are a lot of templates online that you can print out at no cost to you. This can be one of the easiest ways to get your cards finished up. The best thing about printing cards online is you can easily find a wide variety of cards that suit your needs. If you’re feeling ambitious, then you might also want to print our cards that will suit the recipients needs. Of course, if you still want to add a special touch to the cards then print out black and wide cards and color them yourself. This will add a little fun to the process too and will make each card unique. Some websites will even have matching address labels that pair with your card, which makes a great finishing touch.

10. Buy Bulk
Without a doubt, one of the best ways to save big on holiday cards is to purchase in bulk. You can actually find huge boxes in bulk stores that will allow you to have cards for a year or more. Of course, these large boxes of cards tend to have very little variety and are more simplistic than more expensive cards. However, if you have a long list of names to supply for then this is one of the best ways to go about it. If you can manage to shop after the holidays, then you will be able to save even more money on this option.

Christmas Card Day can be a whole lot of fun if you have the ability to save money on your annual cards. These ten tips should cut back on your budget while ensuring you get to send out the cards that will bring a smile to your loved one’s faces. So, this year, you may want to approach your holiday cards differently, as now you can save lots of money.

The month of November is dedicated to celebrating the culture of Native Americans. This might be the perfect time to get accustomed with some Native American traditions and history, especially with the Thanksgiving season upon us. You don’t have to spend a lot of money on lessons and other cultural items to really learn and celebrate such an important heritage in our country. In fact, there are many free or cheap ways to help you have a lot of fun learning about the people who populated the Americas before they were even on the map. So, have a little fun this month when you learn about all of the many tribes and traditions that are part of such a remarkable history.

1. Learn About Tribes
One exceptional way to celebrate this month is to actually learn about the tribes of Native Americans that existed before Europeans invaded. If you’ve never seen a map of the tribes before, then you will probably be pretty surprised by how many tribes there actually were. It is also a big of a shock to see how much land they inhabited throughout the year. If you have older children, then you might want to have them memorize a few of the tribes’ locations on the map and talk about the foods and resources that they may have collected based on their area. You might also hone in on a tribe and study one each November. If you have tribes close to you, then it might be cool to learn about them. You may even be able to visit a reservation if they still have one established. Of course, it might also be meaningful to learn about tribes that no longer exist in order to keep the memory alive.

2. Read Novels from Native American Authors
In our world, novels from other cultures often get the back burner when it comes to best seller lists or even what we read in schools. So, you might want to go out of your way to find a list of Native American novels you can check out. This doesn’t mean you have to choose a novel about Native American life. Rather, there are so many fiction novels on the table that you’d be surprised by what you may find. There are many Native American authors that love to bring in aspects of their culture into their writing, which can add even more magic to the story they are telling. Of course, you can also pick up non-fictions books if you want to read more about certain tribes or history.

3. Listen to Native American Music
There is actually a lot you can learn from a culture based on its music. The cool thing is that each tribe has its own different music to enjoy. Today, we have many ways of enjoying Native American music. One of the easiest and cheapest ways to do this is to listen to streaming music online. Many different streaming services offer a wide variety of Native American music, especially during this special month and the holiday season. You should be able to check out traditional songs, as well as modern Native American music too. You might be surprised as to how this unique form of music has developed over the centuries as well as how beautiful the traditional songs truly are. So, explore around, because you may find something that really resonates with you.

4. Enjoy Lacrosse
Believe it or not, but lacrosse is actually a game that began with the Native Americans. It has been adapted to suit today’s sporting standards, but largely the game hasn’t changed from that which would have been played many years ago. So, this month, you might go out of your way to watch a lacrosse game in person or on TV to learn a bit more about how Native Americans lived and played. If you’re feeling ambitious, then you might want to try the game on for size too. Kids, especially, might want to enjoy playing this game. It may even take the place of football or soccer in their hearts, which can broaden their horizons and allow them to try new ways to enjoy their athleticism.

5. Take in a Native American Film Festival
During this month, you may get lucky and find that there is a Native American Film Festival in your community or at least close by. Usually independent theaters, universities and museums try to utilize Native American Heritage Month to show off amazing films from Native Americans. Since we live in a world where Native Americans are more often than not placed into stereotypical roles, these film festivals can be an excellent way to learn about their culture. It is also a way to see how today’s Native Americans feel about their culture. If you don’t have a film festival happening near you then don’t worry. There’s a lot of great films that you can watch yourself or with your friends and family. Many can even be rented online, which will make your life a lot easier.

6. Explore Recipes
Native American food tends to be overlooked in many places. Largely because there aren’t a lot of restaurants that serve this type of food. Unless you live near a reservation, then you might be out of luck if you’re hoping to try out this cuisine. Of course, there are always recipes that you can try out though. The internet is filled with delicious ideas that will allow you to try out the food that Native Americans are for centuries and even some dishes with a modern twist. You might even want to incorporate one of these recipes into your Thanksgiving meal to add even more authenticity to the dish. You never know, you may find a new dish that will make the rounds on your holiday table every year.

7. Talk to Tribal Leaders
If you would really love some insight into Native American life and culture, then one of the best ways to do this is talk to a tribal leader. If you live near a reservation, you should be able to make an appointment to talk with a leader. Generally, people are very open to questions, especially when they’re coming from an inquisitive mind. You might write down questions you have about culture and history before going in. This is a great assignment for children too, as it will allow them to learn how to talk to people from other cultures while showing respect for their heritage. You may learn a lot about modern tribal life from this experience, which is why it is one of the best ways to celebrate the heritage month.

8. Visit a Festival
During this time of the year, you are more likely to run into a Native American Festival. This is one of the best ways to learn about tribal life and see some of the customs and traditions that Native Americans still practice today. Sometimes, tribes will make an appearance at autumn festivals, so you might look around to see what is on the menu when it comes to your local festivals. If you can’t find a festival nearby, then many festivals will record their performances and lessons to share with those who can’t make it. These videos can be found on popular streaming sites as well as the websites and social media pages dedicated to the specific festivals.

9. Purchase Art
Art is a major part of Native American culture and it comes in all shapes and sizes. One of the more common items purchased is hand woven blankets. These make a nice addition to any home for functionality or simply beauty. Handmade pottery is also a great option which can be used in the home or put out as a display. Of course, there are many other forms of art like jewelry and painting that can be purchased to support Native Americans. You might even look up modern Native American artists to check out artwork that has roots in the past, but still offers a contemporary twist on the culture. Purchasing art work doesn’t just help support Native Americans, but it also preserves the culture so future generations can also treasure it.

10. Pass on History
One of the best ways to celebrate this month is to actually pass down your knowledge about Native Americans. Through the years, tribes have been thinned out and their future is always in question. So, learn as much as you can about Native Americans and make sure to spread this knowledge to your children. There are even child-friendly websites that will allow you to teach children more about Native Americans. Apart from that, you can also work to learn a language or craft from the culture. By picking up some knowledge on at least one tribe, you are helping to preserve Native American culture.

Native Americans have played a crucial role in the success of our nation. It is imperative to show them the respect and compassion that they deserve. This month, you may want to take a little time to help celebrate their culture, so that future generations will be able to have the same luxury. These methods of celebrating won’t cost you much, so there won’t be anything holding you back.

Black Friday and Cyber Monday are just days away and you can probably already feel the excitement in the air. Every year, Black Friday and Cyber Monday helps shoppers find amazing deals on the products they desire. However, there are actually a lot of deals that are for the birds. In order to help you avoid some of the duds, I have compiled a list of ten items you should keep your eye on during the big sales. These items should help you to save the most while improving your shopping experience online or in stores. So, get your good running shoes ready or access your favorite websites, because the biggest sale of the year is ready to make your holiday list disappear.

1. Televisions
You have probably already guessed that new televisions would be on the list, since Black Friday is one of the best times to get an extraordinary deal on a TV. This year will be no exception, especially with the new 4K TVs on the market. Kohls and Target are going to be two of the best options when it comes to variety, so you might do a little research on the TVs that they offer to see which store you’d like to spend your time at. Of course, if you’re looking for the new 4K TVs then Best Buy is offering a $500 discount on one of their models and Walmart will also be reducing one of their 4K TVs to around $300. Also, if you use your Walmart app to pay, you should get an even greater discount. Plus, you won’t have to stay in the insane Black Friday lines. Amazon will also have an assortment of televisions for sale, but you have to be fast because these deals disappear in the time it takes to refresh a page.

2. Amazon Products
Amazon products are going to be another huge deal on Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Of course, you will mainly see the deals on Amazon, but stores like Target and Staples also have some rights to the deals too. So, if brick and mortar shopping is your thing, don’t forget to check out these stores to get some amazing deals in your own neck of the woods. You can already see some of these deal on Amazon’s pre-sale, so if you don’t want to miss out on the deals then shopping ahead might be a wise idea. You might also find the best deals on bundles as this year you can get a whole set of amazing Amazon products to make your home run like a well-oiled machine.

3. Laptops
If you’re in the market for a laptop then now is the perfect time to check out the deals. In fact, you can already find some great deals on Amazon and Walmart if you can’t wait until the deals begin. Of course, if you can wait then you’re sure to find some amazing flash deals that are certain to help keep the whole household happy. You should probably do some shopping around to see what deals strike your fancy. This should help you find the perfect laptop quickly, so you won’t miss out on the deal of your dreams.

4. Apple Products
Apple fans won’t want to miss out on Black Friday and Cyber Monday. You will be able to find an assortment of Apple products on a variety of websites, so you won’t have to look far to find a good deal. Of course, Apple will also have a lot of amazing deals to offer for those shopping in their stores and websites. Some of the products you should be looking out for are older model iPhones. These will be a remarkably low price which will allow you to upgrade without paying a lot of extra money. You may even be able to find a great deal on the newer iPhone if you act fast enough. Walmart plans on offering some great deals on Apple products too, which is perfect if you will be shopping there anyway.

5. Christmas Trees
The day after Thanksgiving tends to mark the Christmas season for many, so it’s no surprise that there will be some great deals on Christmas trees on Black Friday. Lowes, for instance, will be offering seasonally low price on their stock of trees. You can find both artificial and real trees at clearance prices, which should help you get decked out for the holiday season. Other stores will be offering similar details in hopes of boosting their sales for the season. Of course, if you are buying a real tree be wary that it may not make it to the actual holiday. There are special care techniques you can use, but you still might want to hold off.

6. Baby Supplies
If you have little ones in the home, then now is the time to stock up on all of the things you need. For instance, a lot of retailers will be selling diapers and wipes at a great price during Black Friday and Cyber Monday. You might want to look at your favorite brands and see if they’re offering deals that will suit your needs. Of course, keep in mind your child’s potential weight gain over time before you stock up on one size. Some retailers will even knock down prices on nursery furniture, must-have items and even a few things for parents. So, be on the look out in baby departments, especially when it comes to online deals.

7. Children’s Ride-Ons
Children’s ride-on toys are one of the top sellers this year, especially since the new designs suit more pop cultural references that children actually enjoy. Your child can pretend to be Batman in the Batmobile or drive around the block in a Star Wars racer. Of course, you can also follow the more traditional route; such as, Barbie cars, jeeps and even monster trucks. These ride-ons tend to be expensive, so if you want to give your younger kids something to celebrate then you might want to check out the Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals. These items should be marked down considerably, which will make Santa Claus very happy. Of course, like most things, you should shop around ahead of time first, so you can easily visit the store that sells the ride-on of your child’s dreams.

8. Jewelry
If you have your eye on a pair of new earrings, then this is the time to buy them. Better yet, it is the time to buy jewelry as a gift. During this season, a lot of jewelers will actually come out with new items specifically for the holiday season. You should be able to find these at a great price on Black Friday. Of course, this isn’t the only option to choose from when shopping for jewelry. Classic cuts and traditional designs will also be discounted. Some stores will even take a big price cut off of diamonds. If you plan on proposing or getting married then now might be the time to shop, especially since wedding season is out. Of course, you can always just upgrade your current ring set if you want to enjoy a pricier set without having to spend as much money on it.

9. Game System Bundles
This season has a lot of hype when it comes to gaming consoles. With new Nintendo devices on the market and the new XBOX hitting the market a mere couple of weeks ago, it will be tough to say no to even a small discount on these hot items. Although sales aren’t looking too great for these items individually, you will actually find some awesome deals on bundles. There are lots of bundles that include accessories and games, which is certain to make the holiday even more magical. If you don’t have the console yet, this might be the best way to enjoy it. Even upgraders can take advantage of deals like this, especially if some of their accessories might be getting old. You may want to do a little research on the various bundles though, because each store will have their own selection and price.

10. Home Appliances
You might not think about upgrading your home appliances on Black Friday, but this could be the best way to give yourself an amazing holiday gift. A lot of stores will offer huge discounts on these items. You may even find discounted prices on some of the newest models. Stores, like Sears, will be offering up to 40% off of some of their items. This can really help make your dreams come true when it comes to making your home spectacular. You can even shop online for these items as a lot of stores that offer local branches won’t charge shipping if you spend a certain amount of money. So, give yourself a gift that will keep giving this year by scoring a great deal. You may even look at the discounts on bundle pricing to really escalate your home’s value.

Black Friday and Cyber Monday can really add some fun to the holiday season. However, if you don’t know what to look for, you might end up buying anything that strikes your fancy. These ten ideas will help you make a game plan, so you can get the most out of your shopping experience.

Friendsgiving has grown in popularity over the past few years. This occasion is a great time to give some good, quality time to your friends. This can be an important time for many groups of friends, especially since the next few weeks tend be spent with close and extended family, which might not leave a lot of time for those you tend to spend more time with in your everyday life. Friendsgiving doesn’t mean that you have to spend even more money to celebrate during this already busy time of the year. There are actually a few tricks to help make your Friendsgiving a blast without amping up the budget. So, enjoy an occasion with friends without having to deal with the typical holiday fiascos when you keep these ten tips in mind.

1. Use Your Leftovers
If you’re hosting your Friendsgiving celebration after Thanksgiving Day, then you’ve already done yourself a huge favor. You can easily use some of your traditional Thanksgiving leftovers to make a boatload of exciting new dishes. There are so many ways to do this, so if you’re not sure where to start then you might want to begin by looking online. You might also want to try to come up with some of your own ideas that might be repeated year after year. If you’re celebrating prior to Thanksgiving, then you can still use some of your typical leftovers to make new dishes. They may not be as festive, but no one will mind because they’ll be having so much fun.

2. Host a Potluck
When it comes to hosting a Friendsgiving, you don’t have to put all of the work on yourself. Your friends won’t mind pitching in, especially since most will know how much work goes into hosting such an event. So, you might want to make your invitation a potluck occasion. Of course, in order to organize the event properly, you might ask people to bring certain dishes or have them report to you about the dish they will be making. This will help prevent people from bringing several of the same pie, or having a dinner table filled with sides and no main course. Potlucks are a great way to learn new traditions too, which will help everyone learn more about each other. You should also make sure some people are bringing drinks to the event too. You can even request everyone bring a bottle of wine to help make the occasion a bit lighter.

3. Bring Out the Games
Hosting a party can be tough, especially when you’re bringing a bunch of different people together that might not know each other as well as you would hope. One of the best and cheapest ways to get rid of awkwardness is to pull out the games. Cards are one of the easiest ways to break the ice and can make your party last from the afternoon until late into the night, because everyone will be having so much fun. If you’re really into livening things up, then a game of charades can keep people laughing for hours on end. Board games are another option that usually keeps a surprising amount of people happy. Of course, you can also look up classic Thanksgiving games to make the party even more festive or to add a fun twist on some of your favorite games.

4. Binge Watch
Adulting is hard, which is why a lot of people might be happy just to sit around and binge watch some shows or movies during your Friendsgiving celebration. Of course, if you have friends with similar interests, then this option is probably always on the table, because it’s so hard to keep track of all of your favorite shows on your busy schedule. So, make a plan to binge watch a show or two while you all pig out on good food and enjoy each other’s company. If you’re good on shows, then there’s always an assortment of holiday movies to binge watch to help everyone get into the spirit of the season.

5. Ditch Tradition
Although you probably plan to have a traditional Thanksgiving meal with family this year, this doesn’t have to spill over into your Friendsgiving plans. Instead of having a turkey and other autumn favorites, you might decide to follow the crowd’s cravings instead. For instance, you can easily have a taco night that everyone will appreciate. Ordering some pizza is also a great option. As long as you have fun with your friends and show that you’re thankful to have them in your lives, then you’re already having one of the best Friendsgivings around. You might even add some traditional foods to this mix like turkey tacos, or a Thanksgiving pizza.

6. Get Crafty
One fun way to kill the time at your Friendsgiving is to have everyone get together to make some crafts. This can be a fun thing to do while you’re waiting for the meal to finish up, as you can easily put a project down to eat or prepare more dishes if you need to. There are lots of crafts you can do during this time, including scrapbooking. You might also want to get a jump start on some holiday crafts. You can easily make these to give as gifts for this season too, or you simply might want to work on holiday décor. If kids are present at the celebration, then there is a wide assortment of cheap and fun crafts to help them with. You might also print out coloring sheets to help keep them busy while the celebration continues. If you’re not sure which crafts to do, or which will be budget friendly, then look online for a few ideas as you’re bound to find a few crafts you’re going to fall in love with.

7. Sing Carols
This time of the year is the perfect time to warm up your pipes for holiday caroling. If you and your friends love to sing, then break out the instruments and get ready to belt out some of your favorite songs. You can even carol around the neighborhood to add even more fun to the occasion. This should help get everyone in a festive mood and will add a touch of charm to your celebration. Of course, you can always sing your favorite pop sings as well just to keep the vibe going. If you’re feeling creative, then add festive lyrics to your favorite chart toppers and have your friends sing those songs. You can even make a competition out of it to see who can get the most creative.

8. Simplistic Desserts
Making desserts for Thanksgiving can be a real headache. Items like pies and special cakes can take up so much time and concentration that you might not want to bother with them twice. Not to mention, they can really cost a fortune to make. Instead of putting yourself through this trouble twice, you might want to keep things simple. For instance, just make some cookies for dessert. You can even have guests decorate them to add to the fun. Apart from that, you might also consider just candies. These items can all be sent home as party favors too, so you won’t be too tempted to each a lot of sugar in the days after your celebration.

9. Decorate for Christmas
If you want a little help getting your holiday décor up and running, then now is the perfect time to do it. Your friends will probably have a blast helping you decorate, which will also help everyone else get in the spirit of the season. You may even have your friends make a special ornament to go on your tree, which will help everyone remember the special occasion. It is fun to see what everyone comes up with, as far as the decorations they create, and where they end up putting them in the home. Above all, this is a great bonding experience that will help everyone leave the party with a smiling face.

10. Light Drinks
Many Friendsgivings actually end up being adult oriented, which tends to mean drinking is involved. You don’t have to fret about the high cost of some alcohols though. There is actually many drinks you can make that are actually quite light. This can really come in handy if your party is in the day time and people can only have one or two drinks before they need to sober up to head home. Light drinks also prevent any problems that might occur from heavy drinking. So, look around for light recipes that will help stretch your budget farther, while keeping your guests satisfied and safe.

Friendsgiving can be one of the best holidays to celebrate during this time of the year. It is important to spend special occasions with those you love, even if they aren’t your family. So, kick back and have an easy going Friendsgiving that won’t leave your budget wondering where you went wrong thanks to these ten celebration ideas.

November is the perfect time to exercise your kindness. Not only is the giving season upon us, but we also have two holidays based around being kind. That is National Kindness Day on November 13 and National Philanthropist Day on November the 15. A lot of people think that kindness has to do with spending money on other people or even donating to charities. This isn’t the case at all though. As a matter of fact, there are so many things you can do over the week, the entire month or even a full year that will show the world your kindness. If you’re not sure where to start, these ten tips will help you out.

1. Don’t Volunteer on Thanksgiving
Volunteering at soup kitchens and other charities can be an amazing thing to during the month of November as well as the rest of the year. However, a lot of people think that since Thanksgiving is holiday, it is the perfect time to volunteer. This is a major problem because more often than not, most soup kitchens are full of volunteers on the major holiday. This can lead to over cramping and problems that actually slow down service. Rather than give up time with your own family on Thanksgiving, you might try donating food to be served on the big. Then, come back at a later date to work for the soup kitchen. Usually, the days following a holiday people are needed in high volume because most people feel they did their service on the holiday itself and don’t come back to volunteer again.

2. Community Services
It doesn’t matter what community you live in, there is always going to be something that needs to be taken care of. There are so many community projects to work on that most community centers are always looking for kind people willing to lend a helping hand. You might be asked to help build homes with charities like Habitat for Humanity, or you may need to help children cross the street after school. No matter what you choose, you will feel amazing after helping out. If you don’t want to go through a community center, then consider picking up trash along the roads or in parks. Keeping your local environment beautiful is a great way to help out the whole community.

3. Lawn Work
As the weather begins to cool, it is harder for older people to get outside to work on their lawn. Even some people who are capable of doing so, won’t get out in the cooler weather. So, you might take it upon yourself to help out those who need it. Elderly people are often in need of someone to come rake up leaves, mow the lawn or even clear the driveway and salt the sidewalk. If you choose to do this task, try to concentrate on the areas that might become a hazard if they’re not taken care of. For instance, sidewalks should always be clear and salted when they are icy. You should keep dead branches cut to help prevent them falling on homes, vehicles and even people or animals. Another important thing to do is clear the gutters. This can help prevent ice buildup that could cause roof collapse among other major problems.

4. Visit a Nursing Home
During this time of the year, nursing homes tend to grow lonelier and lonelier. The holiday season tends to be the toughest, especially when it comes to fatalities in the nursing home. So, you might want to take some time out of your busy schedule to help out the elderly in your community. You can simply start by visiting the nursing home and spending time with those who might want to talk. You can also volunteer at the home to help with activities, cleaning, or even cooking. There is a lot to be done in such a place, so have fun with it. If you don’t want to volunteer then you might consider making crafted goods to help decorate the place over the festive season. Every little bit goes a long way.

5. Sign Up for Abroad Programs
If you’re looking to broaden your horizons while helping out, then you’re in luck. There are actually a lot of abroad programs that can help you see the world while you help to make it a better place. One of the most popular programs is Peace Corp, which allows you to use the bachelor degree you’ve earned for the good of the world. If you can’t get into Peace Corp then don’t stress it. There’s lot of programs that allow you to spend time abroad and help farmers, educators and more. Some will even give you a small allowance, so you can enjoy your time abroad a bit more. Make sure to do a lot of research before you sign up for a program though, as there are many scams out there that can leave you in a lot of trouble.

6. Donate Goods
Most homes are filled with items they no longer need or want. This is pretty handy because the winter season tends to be a time when those in need could really use those items that are collecting dust in your home. So, you might want to go through your wardrobe and pull out things that aren’t doing you any good. You should especially concentrate on items like winter coats, thermal tops and anything else that might help keep someone warm if they’re spending a lot of time out on the streets. Another option is to have the kids go through their toys. Anything they no longer need can be donated to children that might not be getting holiday gifts. Apart from that, you should offer some of your canned goods and other food items to a food shelter. This will help feed families, particularly on the holidays.

7. Say Hello to Someone
In today’s world of technology, we often go without actually communicating with one another. For some, this can create a very lonely experience. Particularly if they don’t have access to technology or already know every few people. Thus, one of the easiest ways to remedy this issue is to say hello to someone you don’t know. It doesn’t have to be any more than a smile and a hello either, unless you feel like engaging the person in a conversation. You never know, you might even want to ask to join the person for a meal if you find they are eating alone. Of course, you can also practice this with someone you know or someone you see often in the office or in school. You never know whose day you will be making by simply uttering a friendly greeting to them. Doing this may even help you break away from technology for a while, which can do you some good too.

8. Send Thank You Letters
Writing letters isn’t a common practice these days, but you can really make someone feel special by doing this. If you want to do a good deed, then you might consider writing a letter of gratitude to those who help make the country a better place. You might start with writing to soldiers who are stationed away from their families or in danger zones. These letters will help keep up motivation and allow them to know that people are thinking about them and their sacrifice. Of course, you can also keep it local by writing thank you letters to police officers, firemen, nurses, EMTs and more. If you want to go the extra mile, then start working on your homemade holiday cards early. These can be used to share cheer and express your gratitude.

9. Volunteer at a Hotline
The holiday season can be very depressing for those who feel as if life isn’t going their way. The prospect of spending time with family, or not being able to do so, can really transform the way people think and can leave them feeling hopeless. Thus, it is a great time to volunteer for a hotline. There are lots to choose from that can suit your interests and your desire to help those in need. Of course, suicide hotlines aren’t the only options to consider. You might also look into hotlines for domestic abuse, eating disorders and so on. If you’re not crazy about talking on the phone there are options for you to utilize too. For instance, there are hotlines that work with text messaging only. There are also so many online that can leave you feeling like you’ve made a difference. If you prefer face to face contact, then you might want to join a peer group at school or in your community. You will be surprised by how these groups are able to help so many.

10. Make Time for Family
Although it might not seem to make as big of a difference as you think, spending time with your family can be one of the best ways to make a difference. Your immediate family is one of the best ways that you can make a difference in the world. Raising children to be kind to those around them, will help make sure the next generation turns out better than those before them. Of course, you should also consider the elders in your family, or those that might be lonely. The cold season is the perfect time to plan bonding experiences with those that you love. All in all, simply listening to the needs of your family and following their desires will help to make a difference during the month of kindness.

The month of November is one of the best times to put your best foot forward. These ten tips are sure to help you find the best way to be a Good Samaritan and show your kindness to the world without spending a fortune. So, enjoy the month of kindness while you can, as next month begins the busy shopping season.

This year, Sadie Hawkins day falls on November 13. This can be a fun time to reverse roles and have as much fun as the guys do when it comes to planning dates and more. Even if you already lead this role in life, it might be a bit of fun to celebrate the occasion when our ancestors were able to work up the courage to do the asking, instead of the receiving. You don’t have to spend a fortune to make Sadie Hawkins Day a lot of fun either. So, whether you’re proposing to the love of your life or you’re asking a boy to a dance, you may want to check out these frugal ideas. With these ten tips, you should have a great time while keeping your budget in mind.

1. Scavenger Hunt
One of the best ways to ask a fun question is to make a scavenger hunt out of the deal. This is not only a great way to ask a guy to the Sadie Hawkins dance, but it can be a fun wedding proposal idea too. Scavenger hunts can be a whole lot of fun, especially if you add a few personal touches to increase their romantic vibe. If you’re in high school, one of the best ways to go about this is to leave clues in your potential dates locker. You can span this out a week if you’d like, or get the scavenger finished in one school day. You might even have friends help you with the clues to ensure your crush has the best possible time. If you’re proposing, then keep the clues fun and intriguing. Your future spouse might want to take time to figure out harder clues, so judge by their personality. At the end of the scavenger hunt, make sure you top things off with a huge finale. For instance, if you’re asking for a dance date then create a bright sign that features your dance tickets and the big question. If you’re proposing, then take a knee and present your groom to be with a ring. This way of celebrating the holiday can be entirely customized to your needs, so have fun with it.

2. Small Tokens
Giving gifts is often a tradition on Sadie Hawkins day, but this doesn’t mean you have to go all out if you plan on doing this. Instead of spending a lot of money, you might want to craft a gift instead. For instance, you can make a matching boutonniere and corsage to wear to the dance. This can be very simple and will allow you to provide your partner with something that he would typically have to buy for you. Food is another great gift, which you can make with your own two hands. Try baking something sweet to give when you ask your date to the dance. You can also invite him to a homemade dinner. This idea is particularly good for marriage proposals too and will allow you to create a romantic atmosphere that is almost free of distraction.

3. DIY attire
Just like with any dance, Sadie Hawkins tends to require formal wear unless your school has other plans. This can be pretty pricey if you don’t have a budget to play with. Instead, you might want to consider making your own clothes for this dance. For starters, you can shop at the thrift store and make alterations to clothing for you and your date. Your unique style will certainly impress your friends and may even earn you a special title at the dance. You can also rework older clothing that might not fit any more or items that could use a small make over. If you’re really feeling ambitious, then you might want to check out clearance fabric to see if there is anything you can work with. You can also get really creative and come up with a whole wardrobe made completely out of duct tape.

4. Group Deals
If you’re not really looking to make this date completely romantic, then going with a group can be one of the best ways to enjoy Sadie Hawkins. For starters, you may be able to get a deal on your tickets if you simply buy them in bulk from the school. It depends on the school though, so ask around before counting on this type of discount. Of course, if you’re looking for before or after dance fun then group deals are the best way to go. You might be able to find a Groupon or other group inspired coupon for activities or restaurants that will help make the day a lot of fun. You can also call up some restaurants and see if you can get a deal by making a group reservation. You will be surprised by how many places will work with you, especially on a dance night.

5. Volunteer
One of the best ways to help save money, if you’re planning on going to the Sadie Hawkins dance, is to volunteer. Dances take a lot of work, so if you join the dance committee then you may be able to score free tickets to the event. Luckily, dance communities usually have a place for just about every talent, so you can probably find something you actually enjoy doing. For instance, most dances are entirely planned by students, so you can put your two cents in regarding theme and other important dance decisions. If you’re artistic then decorating for the dance is always an option too. Some students even help prepare the food and drink. So, check with your school about volunteering for free admission, if this is something that sounds up your alley.

6. Cook
Putting your skills in the kitchen to work can make your Sadie Hawkins experience even more exciting. If you plan on proposing during Sadie Hawkins Day, then a home cooked meal can make a great statement. You can cook one of your partner’s favorite dishes or go all out and channel your inner gourmet chef. You can even use your cooking skills to hide the ring used for your proposal. Of course, if you are going to Sadie Hawkins then cooking can be a great way to enjoy the day. If you cook early, then you and your date or group can fill up so you won’t need to go out to eat later. You might also consider cooking a meal that is easy to reheat, so you can have the after party at your house. If you don’t want to go to great lengths, then cooking snacks is also a great way to make a statement.

7. Rings
Proposing can be a bit awkward without a ring, but this doesn’t mean that you have to go out and spend a fortune on an engagement ring. In fact, most men don’t wear an engagement ring and many more wouldn’t if given the opportunity to. So, instead of spending a fortune on a ring, you might choose to offer up a cheaper token of your love. For instance, you can use string as a symbol for the ring, which will create a great story. Of course, there are many cheap rings on the market now. You may even be able to find a matching set for less money than you’d think.

8. Embrace a Theme
Sometimes, going formal isn’t the wisest options when you are going to a Sadie Hawkins dance. Generally, not all schools tend to go with a formal requirement for such an occasion. So, you might want to check in on the theme and go from there. More often than not, it is cheaper to come up with a costume to pair with a theme then attire for the occasion. For instance, if there is a Hawaiian theme, you can come up with a costume from thrift shop finds and more to ensure you look great and have fun on a budget.

9. Be an Early Bird
If you are looking forward to the Sadie Hawkins dance, but don’t want to spend a fortune on things later on, then you may want to consider being an early bird. A lot of restaurants will give you an early bird special, so you can eat before dancing at a price that is a fraction of what you would pay after the dance is over. You might also consider staying at the dance for a short while then going to grab some food. Another great option is to have your party prior to the dance. You can find discounts on food for everyone to have a great snack before dancing. Not to mention, some entertainment, like DJs, won’t cost as much. If you’re proposing, then this works out in your favor too. Restaurants are less crowded during early hours and the food will cost less. This is sure to make your special moment even more rewarding.

10. DIY Invitation
A lot of people make a huge deal out of the invitation portion of the dance. However, you really don’t have to go out of your way in order to make this aspect of your dance proposal look amazing. For starters, you can print out an invitation or make one with craft supplies. Then simply place it in your potential date’s locker. This can add a fun element to the process and will cost you next to nothing. You may even look online for ideas as there are so many fun things to choose from or print out that the only thing you’ll lose out on is time.

Sadie Hawkins Day is a great way to mix things up and show your courage when it comes to romance. Of course, the day can simply be for fun too. So, don’t let your budget stand in the way as there are lots of things that you can do to have an extra special Sadie Hawkins Day that will save you money and encourage you to have extra fun.

The cold months certainly leave much to be desired when it comes to your home decor. There is nothing like walking into a warm home after spending a day out in the cold. Of course, planning out a warm home is a totally different story. A lot of people will spend a small fortune on decor to make their home feel this way when there really is no reason to do this. These ten little tips will help your home feel warmer than ever without forcing you to spend a small fortune to redesign for the next few months. So, don’t leave your home feeling stark and uncomfortable, when you brighten things up in just a few minutes. You may even have your friends a little jealous after implementing some of these tips.

1. Showcase the windows
During the winter months, sunlight is one of the best ways to help you feel warmer and more comfortable in your own home. So, you might want to ditch all of the curtains and blinds that you have blocking out the light. This doesn’t mean that you have to put these items up. Instead, consider tying back the curtains and raising the blinds so that the warm sunlight can flood into the house. This will not only look warmer, but will help your home heat up so you don’t have to waste as much money on energy costs. If you like to keep your curtains closed, then you might want to make or buy some sheer or light-colored curtains. This will help the light come through with ease, but will also give you the privacy you desire. If you add decor to the top of the window, like a valance or even custom garland, you will also make the windows a focal point which is certain to warm up the space.

2. Warm Colors
One of the easiest ways to make your home feel warm is simply add some >warm colors to the mix. If you’re feeling ambitious, then adding a coat of paint to a room can be one of the best ways to have some fun with the home. Of course, you don’t have to paint the whole room as an accent wall can go a long way. Luckily, during this time of the year, paint tends to be on sale. So, if you’re willing to put in your own elbow grease then this is a good way to warm up the place. An easier way to go about things is to simply add warm accents. For instance, you can cover some of your living room pillows with warm colors to help add comfort to the home. You might even add autumn inspired decor to help warm up the area, especially if the items show off warmer colors.

3. Display Blankets
If you don’t want to spend a dime on making your home feel comfortable then one of the best ways to do this is to place blankets around the house. The image of a blanket automatically brings comfort to the home, which will make your guests feel like they are welcome whenever they stop by. Best of all, when you have blankets folded up and draped around the home then you have easy access to them for reading marathons or binge watching TV. One of the best ways to maximize the warmth is to display items like knit blankets and quilts. These can be made at home too, which will add even more savings to your budget.

4. Swap Lightbulbs
One of the major reasons why the home feels stale and uninspiring during the winter months is the lights tend to keep the home feeling dim. Often, homes still use lights that leave the home looking yellow, which can really cut down on the mood. If you change your bulbs to energy efficient bulbs, then you’re certain to get a white light that will make you feel as if you’re getting natural light from outside. You might also consider getting some UV lights. This can help >combat symptoms of seasonal defective disorder. You might even feel a bit livelier with a UV light going. Unfortunately, these are a bit more expensive than normal bulbs, but if you do need them for a medical reason insurance might cover some of the costs for you.

5. Use Brass
If you have a lot of metal in your home, then switching to brass will give the home a little extra warmth as well as a fun vintage look. Brass is very trendy this year, so you might even find decor items to suit your new favorite inspiration. You can easily buy stains and paints that can turn just about anything into the home into an item that >appears to be brass. Best of all, some of these paints can even be cleared up later so that you can use other decor for the home. Brass is a metal that can be used all year long too, so if you’re not dedicated to changing things up every season then this metal will certainly look good for quite some time.

6. Warm Artwork
Another easy way to make the home look a lot warmer is to add some artwork to the mix. This is easy to transition between the seasons too, so you won’t lose out on money. You have a lot of options when it comes to this too. For instance, you can actually put up pictures of cozy winter scenes or autumn moments. However, you could also just stick with warm colors if you love abstract images or simple colors. You can usually find these works of art for cheap online, but you might also shop at thrift stores or yard sales to see if there is anything that looks good to you. With the artwork up, your home will look more charming and inviting.

7. Showcase the Fireplace
If you have a fireplace, then you already have one of the best decorations for the cold months. So, if you can, try to bring attention to it. Usually, a roaring fire is one of the best ways to do this, but you can also add some decor to the mantle to give it pizzazz even when it’s not in use. There are mantle pieces, garland and other simple designs to consider when it comes to the fireplace. Of course, if you don’t have a fireplace then you still have options. For instance, you can buy a digital fireplace that can be used as a TV stand or a shelf for some of your decor. If you’re not interested in an expensive purchase, then you can use the fireplace as a screen saver on many smart TVs and computers.

8. Use Flowers
Although flowers aren’t necessarily in season, you can still find them all year long. Autumn flowers can really make a difference in the home without forcing you to spend a lot of money. You can find these in local stores or grow them yourself. Adding the fresh flowers will bring life to the room, even as the weather begins to chill. You don’t have to keep things fresh to make the room feel comfortable though. Rather, you might try to use fake flowers to create the same effect. Flowers like sunflowers can really help keep the home feeling warm and cozy. You might also look into using flowers that follow a red, yellow, orange or brown theme.

9. Display Books
Being a bookworm can really pay off during the cold months. Books actually make the perfect decor item when the weather is blustery. So, don’t be afraid to pull your books out for display. You might even want to bring out the books that have covers that feature warm colors. Of course, hard covers also look amazing when displayed. You can find many of these in thrift stores if you’re simply looking for a display item rather than something to read. You might also find some great hard backs to read too though, so shop around until you find what you want. With books around the house, your home will have a charming feel that will make others want to stop by just to bury their nose in a book.

10. Incorporate Wood
If you love the winter look all year long, then you might want to consider bringing more wood styles into the home. More often than not, this will give the home a more southern style or a log cabin look, both of which can be very cozy. Of course, you don’t have to do a full makeover to add this style to your home. Instead, you can easily make your own wooden accents or decor items for your home. These items can be whittled, made in a shop or even glued. You can really have a lot of fun with it too. There are plenty of these items on the market too, so you can choose anything that suits your home and personality.

Making your home feel warm during the cold months can really change the way you live your life. These ten tips will bring you lots of joy as you navigate through the cold and find a new way to enjoy comfort in your home. With these ideas, you shouldn’t have to spend much to give your home a cozy new makeover.

If you’re a veteran, then you may be looking for a few ways to celebrate your special day without forcing you to have to travel great distances or spend a lot of money to enjoy the special day. Luckily, there’s lots of things you can do to get more out of your holiday, as many people will be celebrating your service. So, if you’re looking for something to do you won’t have to look too far thanks to this list. You’ll love some of these amazing tips they will help you enjoy celebrating your service while ensuring you get to enjoy a few treats too.

1. Free Food
Most veterans enjoy the free food element of the holiday the most. Plenty of restaurants go out of their way to make sure veterans, whether active or not, get a hot and delicious meal. If you plan accordingly, you may even be able to cover breakfast, lunch and dinner. Usually, chains like Denny’s, Cotton Patch Café and Cracker Barrell offer a free dish to any veteran that comes in. Some buffet chains, like Cici’s Pizza will also offer you a deal on the big day. Of course, you don’t have to stick to eating on Veteran’s Day as some restaurants even extend days that the deal is offered for veterans who may not want to deal with crowds. Your local restaurants may also be more apt to offer free meals too, so check around in your area. Some restaurants will ask for proof of your service, while others will simply give you the meal. So, you might bring a memento to be safe.

2. Discounted Merchandise
On Veteran’s Day, a lot of stores will give major discounts on military merchandise. So, this might be one of the best times to boost your collection. A lot of non-affiliated stores use this holiday as a time to help them get rid of their military stock. However, you may have to prove that you’re actually a veteran if you want to enjoy the special savings. You might also be given a special code to use for certain stores if you’re in a veteran group. Apart from that, many military stores will host sales to help boost sales before the holidays. However, unless you’re retired or an active member you may not be able to access this merchandise.

3. Parade
A lot of cities love to honor veterans with their very own parade. This parade may not be as large scale as some of the of the parades you’re used to. However, you should be able to find one in your community or at least in a nearby community. More often than not, these parades feature veterans marching as well as military inspired bands. You may even look into marching in the parade if you enjoy doing such a thing. Of course, if there isn’t anything in your area then you can always check out parades online. Most cities will do a live feed as well as footage after the parade, so you can check out the beautiful sight whenever it is convenient for you.

4. Hang Out at the VA
One of the best things to do for Veterans Day is to hang out with your fellow veterans at the VA. The Veterans Affairs program tries to open up a VA center in every community, so that veterans can have a place to go to enjoy one another’s company and seek help in tasks like finding jobs and assistance programs. Usually, the VA has games set up, plenty of people to talk to and a place to grab food and a drink. This might be the perfect place to gather, especially if you want to share your service story while listening to others. On Veterans Day, you may even be able to get a free drink to help make the day even more special. If you’re not sure where your local VA building is, then hop online and search or talk to other veterans in your area. You may even make a few new friends and find a new permanent hang out while celebrating the day.

5. Sporting Events
If you’re a veteran that can’t get enough sports in your life, then you’re probably in for some real treats on Veteran Day. Typically, many venues will actually discount prices on sporting events, so you can get more out of the day. For instance, if you like to golf or bowl then you might see what venues are offering discounts. Some may even offer a free round or unlimited play, so make sure to take them up on the offer and have some fun. If playing sports isn’t exactly up your alley, then you might be able to find cheap prices on professional events. Many teams will offer major discounts or even free tickets for veterans. Apart from that, many communities will put together free games for veterans to participate in. This can be a great way to show off your competitive side while enjoying your favorite sport with others that have served.

6. Maintain Cemetery
One of the best ways to support your fellow veterans is to clean up cemeteries that have veterans at rest. This might not sound like a great way to celebrate your service, but it will help celebrate those who are no longer with us, which is very honorable. You might also find this to be one of the best ways to get meaning out of the day, especially if you have lost a veteran in your life. Cemeteries tend to end up getting overgrown and litter often piles up. So, you might want to clean out old or dead flowers, pick up trash and dust off the headstones and grave markers. You can also leave behind little flags to show your support for their service. After doing this, you are sure to feel like you continued your service.

7. Concert
You might be surprised by the amount of benefit concerts that are hosted on Veterans Day. Many musicians want to show their support for those that serve or have served before. Many musicians try to head overseas to perform for soldiers that are deployed. However, you will still find plenty of concerts nearby too. If you live near a base, then you will most likely find a concert to attend. However, if you don’t you may not have as much luck. You should still look around and see if local bands are hosting an event though. Apart from that, you should also tune in online or on TV to see which concerts you can see. You may find some of your favorite musicians are honoring you if you look hard enough to find the concert.

8. Free Hair Cut
Being in the military often meant keeping your hair neat and tidy. In the civilian world, there aren’t as many restraints on this. However, on Veterans Day, many shops would love to honor you with a free hair cut. Many chains will run this promotion on the day of the holiday, so you might want to head to your shop of choice early, so you don’t have to wait in line. You might call to see if your shop is offering the free haircut too, as some shops won’t participate in the promotion. Local barber shops and beauty salons may also participate, so don’t disregard then before asking. This promotion will help you with job interviews, family portraits and other aspects of life that will give you confidence and make you feel like your service was appreciated. Best of all, you can choose whichever haircut you like, which is something you couldn’t do while serving.

9. Air Show
Veterans Day tends to be one of the best times for an air show. These shows often accompany fall festivals too, so if you’re looking for a show in your area then this might be the perfect place to start. Some of the top-flight teams love to take to the sky for Veterans Day to show off their moves in appreciation of those that have served. Usually, the teams will have information on their websites as to where they will be performing. So, you can easily find a show near you this way too. If you don’t have a show in your area, then don’t give up hope. There are lots of shows you can watch online and some will even be broadcasted on TV.

10. Discounted Events
If you’re bored and looking for something to do, then there might be plenty of things in your neck of the woods to check out. A lot of theaters will actually drop the price on their tickets for veterans on the day, so that you can check out the best blockbusters of the season. If movies aren’t your thing then you can still check out classic theater productions at a reduced price. Some theaters will even put on military themed productions during this time. Another major source of entertainment that tends to honor veterans is museums. Whether they are military themed or simply artistic, you should be able to view with pleasure. If you live in a warmer area of the country, then you might also be able to get a reduced price on beach parking and other warm weather events. If you’re unsure where to start, then look on your favorite military website to see what is in store for your special day.

Veterans Day is the perfect time for veterans to celebrate their service and have a little fun. These ten ideas should help you plan an amazing day that will help you feel appreciated for your service. So, enjoy yourself a little without spending a bundle.

As you can imagine, the month of November is one of the best times to go shopping for most items. With the gift giving holidays coming up, the sales are going to be just about everywhere during this month and next month. You’ll especially find some unbelievable deals when Black Friday arrives just after Thanksgiving. However, there are some items that you probably shouldn’t rush to buy during the month of November. These items are usually offered on sale during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, but more often than not, you’ll find an even better deal later on in the season. So, if you’re looking to save then skip out on these items unless you find a ridiculously good deal.

1. Toys
When you have kids, it’s hard to hold off on shopping during the busy season. However, if you want to shop toys you should try to work past your need to shop and wait until December arrives. The prices of toys are still going to be a bit high during November, so even the toys on the hot list won’t be worthy of buying. Your best option is to wait until December when toy stores bank on parents coming in to get their kids toys. You will see a lot of sales and good prices, so don’t miss out because you took care of your shopping too early. The best thing you can do is shop around for items you might want and keep an eye on the stock. If the item seems to fly off the shelves then go ahead and buy it, but if not keep your cool as the sales will only get better and better. Some items will be on sale during Black Friday, but these usually aren’t majors gifts. January is also a time in which they roll out new toys, so if you missed out on an item for Christmas then it will most likely hit the sales rack when the new line of toys is released.

2. Exercise Equipment
During November, there aren’t a whole lot of deals on exercise equipment. Usually, people are trying to get the most out of their gym memberships before they expire for the year, so not a lot of people want to purchase items like this. It isn’t a common holiday gift either, which forces stores to concentrate on other sales. If you’re looking to save big on items like this then January is the time to do it. Most stores are banking on customers who have made New Year’s resolutions to lose weight. Thus, the sales will draw in more people and earn them a lot more money. You should find major discounts during this month, so if you’re in no rush to buy the equipment then wait until the holiday season is over.

3. Travel
Unfortunately, you’ve missed out on the window for holiday travel deals. Now, everything you purchase is going to be way overpriced. This especially includes airline tickets as soon every flight will be booked entirely. Your best bet on getting a flight is to get on a standby list and hope for the best, but even then you might not get a great price. Booking hotels can also be a real pain, especially if you need a room actually on a holiday. You will have to pay double the price in most places and you may not even find a suitable place to stay. Another problem is going to be renting cars as many will be booked and some companies might even require extra insurance. Your best option for purchasing travel is to book for Spring Break, as you might still be able to find a good deal.

4. Christmas Decor
You’ve probably noticed that stores love to put out their holiday supplies well in advance. November probably isn’t even going to be the first month that you’ll see holiday gear in the store. However, it still isn’t going to be the best time to shop for holiday supplies. Usually, when supplies first reach the shelf they are going to be at their base price. As soon as December arrives, prices will decrease slightly. The closer it gets to the holiday’s date, the more the holiday items will decrease. Better yet, when the holiday is over you’ll have so many discounts to choose from that it’ll be impossible not to over shop.

5. Winter Gear
In some locations, it might already feel like Winter is coming around the corner. However, this doesn’t mean that it’s a wise time to grab the gear you’ll need for winter. Prices are still hiked up now for those who wish to grab winter supplies before winter actually strikes. Winter gear includes everything from fashion pieces to the supplies you need to get the snow off of your driveway. Your best option is to wait until winter arrives when stores will be trying to get rid of their stock. However, if you’re lucky you might find a good, random deal on Amazon to satisfy your urge. If you want to save even more then shop winter gear in the spring and save it for next year.

6. Family Photos
In November, there always seems to be a mad rush for people who want to get into the studio for a family portrait. This is largely because people would love to send out holiday greeting cards with their perfect picture enclosed. Booking a slot for a photo session during this time might cost you a bundle though. Usually, photographers up the price because they have so many wanting to take advantage of the session time. Your best option is to get your photo taken in October, when no one is worrying about holiday cards. You might also have better luck waiting until the season is over and having a non-themed family photo taken. Of course, if you really want the holiday portrait without the price tag then there’s many DIY options to try out.

7. High Powered Computers
November is a great month for technology. Black Friday and Cyber Monday alone are the perfect time to grab a piece of technology that you’ve had your eye on. However, there is one group of tech that doesn’t follow this rule of thumb. That is, high powered computers won’t fall into the sales category this month. These computers tend to be much stronger than your average laptop and many people don’t bother to buy them anymore. Thus, if you’re looking for a more high powered option then it would be best to wait until August or September when Back to School sales begin. You should see tons of discounted items during this time. In fact, you might even get better deals on spare parts, so you can build your own computer with ease.

8. XBOX 1S
The XBOX 1S is going to be the holiday gift this year, if you know a gamer. However, if you’ve had your eye on this machine then you might want to take a few steps back during the month of November. Since the console is making its debut, you might find that the price is going to be pretty even across the board. Unless you managed to get in a pre-order, you’re probably looking at spending a little extra than other people did. Your best option is to wait, at least, until December when stores begin to put their excess items on sale. You might also look on Black Friday to see if you’re fast enough to catch a deal. Of course, the third option is to simply wait it out. After all, it might be wise to do this whenever there is a new console as glitches can be frustrating and costly.

9. Bedding
Another poor option for shopping is bedding. Anything from sheets to comforters aren’t going to be on your must-have list this month. Even Black Friday tends to miss deals when it comes to these items too. Your best option is to hold off until January when the White Sale begins. This is your best option for discounts on items like this. Of course, if you miss these sales then hold out for Back to School days when stores are trying to sell their items to dorm rooms. If you’re really desperate for these items then it might be wise to shop on Cyber Monday at a website that specializes in these items.

10. Autumn Clothing
Although you might be waiting on pins and needles to finally find sales on your autumn wardrobe, you might want to hold out just one more month for this. As the end of December nears and the winter solstice begins, you’ll find your autumn styles will be one sale at a huge discount. This will allow you a few weeks to wear the clothes you purchase. Of course, most winter clothes can also be incorporated into your winter attire too, which should keep you very fashionable for the year.

Although November is a lot of fun when it comes to shopping, you’re sure to be better off if you avoid these items. Pretty soon, you’ll be able to find even better deals on the items, which is certain to help you save more money for presents and other items your budget must be able to afford.

The weather is rapidly beginning to cool, which more often than not means we’re going to be experiencing the dry air that winter often brings. This can certainly do a number on your skin if you’re not prepared for the cold months to arrive. Of course, this doesn’t mean you have to spend a small fortune on skin regiments that will drain your budget while forcing your skin to rely on products that are largely made with chemicals. There are actually many frugal and natural ways to keep your skin looking and feeling incredible during the winter months. These ten tips should help you find the perfect balance for your budget and needs, so don’t fret about feeling uncomfortable when winter does make its way to town.

1. Use Sunscreen
A lot of people don’t think to use sunscreen when the temperature drops. It is always advertised as a summer product and even features summer friendly smells. However, you should wear sunscreen all year long, especially if you’re going to be out in the sun for hours. Although the sun might not seem as harsh as it is in the summer, UV rays can still cause a lot of damage. In fact, you can even get sunburnt on an overcast day, so keep a bottle of sunscreen handy throughout the entire year. This alone will help keep your skin vibrant and healthy. It will also help cut back on damage that could cause major problems in the future.

2. Fast Showers
Without a doubt, the cold weather makes it very tempting to hop into a hot shower for a long period of time. However, this can be one of the worst things for your skin. Hot water actually dries out the skin considerably, which will add to the dryness problem you will already be working to defeat due to dry air. Rather than hiking up the water’s temperature, you should try to deal with a warm shower. It might not be as relaxing, but it will help you out considerably. Long showers are another major culprit. Instead, try to get in and out of the shower as fast as you can. If possible, you might turn on the water long enough to get wet, then soap up with the water off and turn it back on to rinse. Using this method is great for the environment and your skin, so you’ll be doing yourself a few favors. Not to mention, your water bill will also drop considerably.

3. Skip Showers
In our society, showering every day has become a bit of a social norm. So, it might seem weird to think about skipping more than a day a week. However, we are actually showering more than we should be, which is causing a lot of damage to our skin. This is especially true when it comes to the winter months when the skin is naturally drier than normal. It is actually much better for your skin if you only take two to three showers a week. Of course, if you’re not comfortable with this then showering every other day should do magic for your skin. You will see that the natural oils return, which allow your skin to look younger for longer and reduces the itchiness that winter brings. This method saves a lot of water too. You might make a point to clean areas that might be subject to more sweat and germs with a wash cloth outside of the shower though.

4. Hair
Your hair, namely the skin on your scalp, also needs some extra attention during the winter months. You may notice more itching and dandruff during this time of the year due to the dry air. Part of the problem is shampooing daily, which will dry out your scalp even in the summer months. It is important that the scalp has time to replenish oils, in order to maintain health. So, skip the daily shampoos whenever you can. If your hair still feels dry and brittle then you might consider using mayonnaise to deep condition it. This works wonders and will give your hair an irresistibly soft feel. Mayonnaise is also a lice remedy that you might want to keep handy as lice tend to hit schools more often during the winter months. If you notice your hair looks dull, then douse it in vinegar and let it sit a few minutes before showering. Static is also a problem that dryness brings. To combat this, simply rub your hair with a dryer sheet. The static will disappear and your hair will smell amazing.

5. Swap Cleansers
One major problem that we run into is not swapping shampoos, conditioners and soaps when the season changes. Cleansers designed to deal with oily skin in the summer, will only harm your body when it comes to the winter months. Instead, you should look for cleansers and conditioners that work to provide your body with more moisture. Usually, creamy cleansers are best for your skin as they add moisturizers to the mix. However, all skin is different, so you should play around with a few different options to see what works best for you. This will help you get more out of your cleanser, so your skin won’t feel as tight and uncomfortable during the cold winter months.

6. Use a Humidifier
As mentioned before, dry air is one of the biggest culprits when it comes to the winter months and how they affect the skin. One of the best ways to combat this issue is to leave a humidifier going in the home as often as you can. A humidifier will add moisture to the air, which will bring your skin even more health. It will also help your sinuses cope with all of the dryness they are enduring. Humidifiers can be used in combination with essential oils to bring even more health to the household. Of course, they also work wonders with vaporizer rub when someone in the home is sick. These devices don’t cost a lot either, so you might want to have a few for the home, especially if you have children. If you live in a tight space, then you might consider buying a small diffuser, which will still add moisture to the air, while taking up much less space.

7. Take Vitamins
Another great way to keep your skin looking and feeling great is to keep up with your vitamins. During the winter months, we aren’t getting as much Vitamin D as we should be. So, a multi-vitamin is already in order to keep up with your health. If you want to give your skin the extra boost it needs, you might look into taking a vitamin with Vitamin E. This is the best vitamin for skin, hair and nail health. Of course, keeping up with all of the vitamins and nutrients you need will keep your skin healthier than ever. You might also want to look into getting a lotion with collagen to help with skin repair. By doing this, you should notice that your body feels and looks better than ever.

8. Moisturize
One of the most important things that you should do all year long is moisturize. However, this is especially important during the winter when your skin is already feeling dry. You can moisturize whenever you feel the need to, but there are some points in time that are more efficient than others. For instance, you should always apply lotion when you get out of the shower. Your skin is still slightly moist and you’ve just exfoliated, which helps brings the moisture into the body. Choosing a moisturizer is important too. Unless you talk to a dermatologist often, you might have to try a few different options until you find a lotion that works best for you. Try to find one that has more natural ingredients than chemicals though as this will do your body a lot of favors.

9. Hydrate
Water is essential for life and most of us aren’t getting enough of it. You might feel more inspired to grab a glass of water if you know it will do your skin wonders though. Water will help hydrate the body, which will benefit the skin immensely. It has the power to get rid of dryness, while also ensuring you don’t break out due to your dry skin. Drinking water will also help you cut back on overeating and drinking beverages that aren’t going to do your body any favors. So, load up on water when you can. You might want to grab yourself a personal water bottle to help you keep track of the amount of water you are drinking on a daily basis.

10. DIY Treatments
There are an unbelievable amount of skin products on the market and many of them will cost you an arm and a leg. The unfortunate thing is, these products often don’t do anything more than homemade remedies can do. So, you might as well save some money and see what you can do with the materials you have in your own home. There are many DIY recipes online that will work wonders for your body. So, you might want to start by researching remedies for your specific issue. For instance, if you have dark bags under your eyes then a tea bag will help reduce the puffiness while dulling the darkness. You might also take a lot of pleasure in some of the sugar scrubs, which get rid of dead skin while adding moisture to the new skin. There are even recipes for homemade soap and lotion that can save you lots of money while allowing you to take control over what goes on your body.

Dealing with dry skin during the winter months can certainly be a pain. Luckily, these ten remedies can help you keep your skin looking and feeling amazing without forcing you to go out of your way to spend money. Now, all you have to do is play around with what works best for your body.

It doesn’t matter if you’re a teacher or a helper, coming up with classroom party ideas can be tough. Usually, teachers end up having to do a lot of the planning or choosing parents to lend a helping hand. On the other side, some parents are more than happy to cut their child’s teacher some slack and take over the job. If you’re on either side of the spectrum, you may be looking for some quick ways to make the Halloween party cheap, yet fun. Luckily, there’s lots of great ways to do this. So, grab your favorite costume and get ready to party in style for a lot less.

1. Ask Parents For Help
Whether you’re a teacher or a parent, you shouldn’t have to bear this burden alone. So, don’t be afraid to reach out to other parents. You can easily send out a memo to other parents asking to bring in treats. If you’re a teacher and you have a list of parent’s emails this is probably the most efficient way to go. Parents can bring in spooky treats to help make the party a success. Some can even stop by to help keep the party in order. The more helping hands you are able to rustle up, the easier you’re going to have it when it comes to planning and organizing. The excess help will also cut back on spending, for an individual person. Thus, the party will be a lot better without forcing the teacher to sacrifice even more money out of budget.

2. Make Halloween Masks
One way to keep the kids entertained during the party is to allow them to create their own Halloween masks. All you will need for this is large paper bags or paper plates and some form of string or popsicle sticks. You can also pull our craft supplies that the students already have or bring in a few extras to add even more fun to the activity. Students can use their imaginations when it comes to their masks. They can be anything from their favorite monster an astronaut or dinosaur. The best thing about this activity is it ensures every child will have a costume to where to the party. If you want to add an educational element then have the kids right now a story about the character they created.

3. Wrap the Mummy
A quick and easy game to play with kids of many ages is wrap the mummy. All this game takes is a few rolls of toilet paper. You can split your class into a few teams for this experience too, to help the game move along faster. Once you have teams, one child will become the mummy and everyone else will use the toilet rolls to wrap up the mummy. You can limit toilet rolls to add difficulty to the game too. If a student wants more toilet rolls they will have to pass trivia questions to get it. The fastest team to entirely wrap up their mummy wins the round. The game can be repeated until every student has had a turn as the mummy. Then, the team who wrapped the most mummies the fastest is the overall winner.

4. Paint Pumpkins
A lot of people know how to get bulk deals on pumpkins, so you might want to purchase small pumpkins for your class to paint. Of course, you can also request parents send them to help save money. Either way, this is a great artistic activity for your Halloween party. You can even have the kids make hats and other accessories out of paper and cheap fabrics. Of course, if you want to keep things simple then the kids will have lots of fun with some basic washable paints and q-tips for application. You may even have the kids display their creations in your classroom window until it is time to break for Thanksgiving.

5. Decorate the Class
Instead of spending a lot of time decorating the classroom for the kids to enjoy, you might want to have the kids join in on the fun. You can hand out coloring sheets as an easy way for kids to show off their personality. Of course, you can also take things a step further. One easy way to do this is make a giant spider web out of yard. Kids can then paint their own spiders and place them in the web. You can also do body tracings and have the children turn themselves into monsters by coloring them and cutting out the traced image. Then the monsters can be placed around the classroom. You can even make jack o lanterns out of paper plates. Another fun idea is to stuff the top of tissue paper to make little ghosts that can be hung from the ceiling.

6. Organize Trick or Treating
Trick or treating is one of the best parts of Halloween for children. It’s a little hard to organize a day of trick or treating for kids, but you can have a little fun with it for half an hour or less. This can be done by contacting other teachers to see if they will participate in your trick or treating adventure. The other teachers can simply give out candy or school supplies. Of course, you can spice this up a bit too. Teachers can pass out coloring sheets, mazes and word searches that can all be used to keep the kids entertained during the rest of the party. This activity can also be transformed into a scavenger hunt. Teachers can give out clues to help your class find the ultimate prize. You can play around with the ideas to suit your needs and to create an amazing experience your class will remember forever

7. Costume Contest
If your school allows children to dress up for the holiday or on a specific day, then hosting a costume contest is always a great way to let the kids have fun. You can organize the contest like a fashion show so everyone can see the costumes in a fun way. You might want to bring some dress up clothes for children who might not be able to afford a costume, so they can participate too. After everyone has shown off their costume, you might want to host a secret vote so everyone can choose who they thought had the best costume. You can even organize it into multiple categories to ensure there are multiple winners.

8. Spooky Music and Dancing
Children, especially those that are quite young, love to dance and have fun. Thus, playing spooky music and having the kids dance might be a great form of entertainment for your classroom’s party. One of the best ways to handle the music is to look for kid-friendly playlists online. You might also want to use a streaming network to come up with your own playlist. Once you have the music in order, try to come up with some spooky dances. You can even ask the kids to come up with a dance that is specific for their character. This will bring lots of laughs and will ensure everyone has a lot of fun.

9. Halloween Stories
Story time is one of the best times for younger children. Luckily, there are lots of great books to help you out. You can get a list of Halloween inspired stories online so you can purchase your own or ask your local library to get them for you. Children will love listening to stories about their favorite characters enjoying Halloween, especially if you accompany story time with snack time. If you have an older group then you might want to have them make up their own stories. You can even have them play a story game where everyone carries on with the story where the last person left off. It is a great way to work on creativity and will help children bond while enjoying their Halloween party.

10. Themed Snacks
One of the aspects of Halloween is all of the amazing treats that you can enjoy. You can easily whip up a few treats in the shape of spooky creatures using rice crispy treats or cookies. Of course, you can also get really crafty with foods that are designed to actually look spooky. For instance, you can easily come up with spaghetti to use as worms. You can also use grapes as eyes. These snacks are perfect for a haunted house. If you’re shy on ideas to whip up there’s tons of ideas online. You can also ask other parents to bring in their own take on Halloween treats.

Your classroom can have a spectacular Halloween party if you set your mind to it. Best of all, you don’t have to spend a lot of money to help make your students happy. These ten ideas will help any teacher or parent plan a classroom party that will make the rest of the school jealous.

If you love autumn, then chances are you’ve already planned on making a trip to an orchard to do some apple picking. As you know, this activity isn’t the most frugal item on your list of things to do. However, you can take the price of admissions and use it to your benefit simply by treating your apples right. There are a long list of things you can do to get more out of your apples, so you don’t have to feel bad about spending so much just for the apple picking experience. So, hang tight, because these ten tips are sure to make your apple picking experience even more enjoyable, especially since you can reap the benefits for months.

1. Pick Properly
One of the key components to picking apples is to actually pick them properly. Many people will just grab any apple in sight, especially if the apple is large. They also toss them into their apple basket, which is another no-no when it comes to this activity. Luckily, it doesn’t take long to read up on ideas to help you pick your apples properly. One of the first clues is to check an apple for ripeness before you pick them. You want to choose apples that won’t be going bad in a week, so if an apple is considerably ripe then you may want to leave it, or choose it to eat right away. When placing your apples in your basket do it gently. This will help prevent bruising which will keep your apples from going bad too quickly. Another thing to look out for is bugs, which can completely ruin your apple before you even get it home.

2. Store Properly
Another way to get more out of your apples is to store them in a cool and dry place. The refrigerator isn’t the best of places for this as there is usually too much moisture, which will cause your apples to rot faster. If you have a dry basement or cold storage area, then this might the best place for them. You might consider placing them inside cardboard to keep them even drier. Another option is to store them in rows. This will prevent one rotten apple from causing the rest of your batch to go bad. There are many great storage tips you can find online too, so if you’re looking for the best way to preserve your apples then look around. You might find an option that is entirely convenient for your home.

3. Pre-make Pies
One of the main problems people run into when going apple picking, is they just don’t know what to do with the abundance of apples. Eating them all before they go bad isn’t always an option. Luckily, the holidays are rapidly approaching, so you might want to grab a few of your apples to bake into pies. There are many great pie recipes out there, so you can even explore to see which one you like best. You can pre-make your pies in two different ways too. The first way is to just make the pie filling and freeze it for the special occasion. However, if you have some free time on your hands then you might want to make the pie dough too. Then, you can assemble the pie and place it in the freezer. On the big day, all you’ll have to do is pop it in the oven. This is perfect for gifts for the holidays too, so don’t let your apples go to waste as there’s plenty of delicious recipes to try out.

4. Apple Cider
During the cold months, you’ll have more than just hot chocolate to turn to in order to warm you up. Apple cider is one of the best drinks to have on hand for the autumn and winter holidays. It is also a great drink for the kids when the temperature drops during outdoor playtime. You can easily transform your abundance of apples in some apple cider that will please everyone that pays you a visit. The best thing is, this drink can be made in a huge batch and then frozen to individual portions so you can have a warm treat before work every day or whenever you’re having a moving marathon on a cold night. You’ll be thankful for this amazing beverage and how great it makes you feel.

5. Applesauce
If you have kids then transforming some of your apples into applesauce might just be the best way to go. This isn’t a long process and can give your kids a healthy snack that they will enjoy. The apples work great as baby food too, so you can get even more out of your cooking session. Applesauce isn’t entirely hard to make and you can even use your slow cooker to do the job, if you’re shy on time. Best of all, like most other things on the list, applesauce freezes well so you can keep a back stock of it without worrying about it going bad.

6. Apple Chips
Snacking on greasy potato chips can be satisfying, but isn’t exactly great for you. This is especially true in the colder months when you’re not going to be as active. Instead of snacking on these chips, you might want to try something a little different. All you have to do is thinly slice your apples and bake them. You can add a little sugar, cinnamon or anything else that strikes your fancy. The result of your baking experience will be delicious chips that have the crunch that you love while adding a healthy touch to your diet. You can even pack these in the kids lunches to make their lunches even better. These chips aren’t just delicious, but they’ll be just as satisfying as their potato counterparts.

7. Jam
Without a doubt, when you have an abundance of food to get through, preserving it is the most traditional way to go. So, you might want to check out some jam recipes to see what you can do with your stock of apples. You can easily mix the apples with other forms of fruits and spices to add to your flavor palette. Jam is fairly easy to make too, but if you’ve never done it before then you can find easy tutorials online. You might even consider trying your hand at making apple butter once you get your jamming techniques down. Making jam will allow you to keep your apples for much longer. They will also make great additions to breakfast or sandwiches.

8. Apple Cider Vinegar
Over the years, apple cider vinegar has increased in popularity. It is said to have a wide variety of health benefits as well as heavy cleaning qualities. So, you might want to use some of your apples to make your very own apple cider vinegar. Although you might not enjoy the smell a whole lot, this can help you save money and will ensure you have a huge stock of the hottest item on your grocery list. There are lots of recipes online to guide you through the process, so don’t be afraid to try a few different things to see which works best for you.

9. Fruit Leather
If your kids are into fruit roll ups, then you might want to try to make them some fruit leather. This is a healthier and homemade snack that most kids will go crazy over. The best thing is, you can easily make fruit leather from apples. This takes a special process to make, but don’t worry you won’t be spending all day in the kitchen to make this treat a reality for your kids. The best thing you can do is surf around for recipes and find one that looks easy for you. You can also check online videos and follow along through the process. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll be making fruit leather in your sleep. You’ll also have to pat yourself on the back for making something healthy and delicious that your kids won’t be able to refuse.

10. Apple Stamps
Your apples don’t have to be all about the food though. Instead, you might want to make some stamps from your apples. This is especially great as the apples begin to age and feel more leathery than fruity. All you have to do to make an apple stamp is cup it in half. Kids can dip each half in different places to create apple prints on paper. Each apple will have a unique design, which is a great way to teach your children about apples. Apple stamps can be used for random fun, but you might also consider using them to make decorations for Halloween or Thanksgiving. The apple prints make the perfect look for a placemat for your guests. If you get fabric paint, you might consider using the stamp on a cloth napkin for a seasonal look that everyone will think costs a bundle. Your creativity is the limit here.

Apples can certainly be one of the best aspects of the autumn months. These ten ideas will help you choose the best apples and how to preserve them. This should give you a little more to show for all of your hard efforts. It might even make you want to go apple picking more, so you can transform your bounty into spectacular holiday gifts that everyone will adore.

Working on a bucket list can get pretty hard when the weather cools down, especially if most of your items involve outdoor activities or travel. There are many things you can do to work on your bucket list when you can’t get outside or the time off to travel. Luckily, these bucket list items won’t cost you a fortune and might even give you a boost of confidence along the way. So, don’t let your bucket list collect dust just because you’re trapped indoors as you are sure to have some fun accomplishing the items on this list if they aren’t already on your bucket list.

1. Write the Novel
If you’ve always dreamed of writing a book, then autumn is the perfect time to give it a try. The chilly months are a great time to grab your favorite warm beverage and cuddle up with your laptop to let your story come out. Often, many people claim that the chilly months give them plenty of inspiration to get their heart and soul out on paper. To make things even better, November is actually National Novel Writing Month, or NaNoWriMo, which should give you the inspiration you need to get your book started. You can join in on a lot of groups that will help push you to write as much as you possibly can. There are even publishers who are excited to except work from this period of time. You might only get a section published, but it is still a start to make your bucket list shine.

2. Break a Habit
No one is entirely happy with themselves, so you might want to use this time to break a habit of your choice. It actually only takes 21 days to ditch a bad habit, so if you can work on something for a little less than a month you can make big changes by the time New Year’s rolls around. There are lots of things you can work on without even having to set foot outside. For instance, you can quit something that might be harming you, like ditching smoking or eating junk food. If you’re willing to put in a little more work, you can build a good habit in just 66 days. So, you might want to try something like picking up yoga, aerobics or any other workout program that you can do indoors. You can learn to cook every night instead of going out. You might also try building a habit of calling friends and family more often.

3. Pick Up a Hobby
A lot of people have hobbies on their bucket list, which makes autumn the perfect time to invest in this aspect of your list. For instance, if you want to learn an instrument then use the time you have indoors to do so. You might start by purchasing or renting an instrument to see if you actually like it. Then, you can check out free lessons online so you’ll be on your way to marking this off of your list. Another great option is to learn a new language. There’s lots of free ways to do this too and you’ll have ample time to practice during rainy days. Apart from that, you might consider picking up knitting or any other hobby that can be beneficial around the home.

4. Break a Record
If you have a lot of time on your hands then you might want to use it to break a record. This can be accomplished in a couple of different ways. You can easily pick a record out of the World Record Book and try to beat it. There’s a whole lot of fun records, so you don’t even have to pick anything too tough if you don’t want to. This will give the whole family a goal to work towards and will land your name in the world record book if you succeed. Another way to accomplish this is to choose a personal record to break. This can be for just about anything. For instance, if you are particularly proud of your running record then try to break it. This is an amazing way to challenge yourself, so you can feel fulfilled in everything you do.

5. Attend Oktoberfest
One big event that happens during the autumn is the traditional Oktoberfest, which is a famous German celebration. Of course, going to an actual Oktoberfest in Germany isn’t exactly on the frugal side of things. Luckily, there is a number of Oktoberfests that take place all over the world. You may even find one in your own community. This will give you a great experience to enjoy while showing you some culture. Of course, you might want to look into the Oktoberfest near you before you buy tickets. Some are family friendly while others only allow people in who are of drinking age. If you don’t want to visit an Oktoberfest that is close to your home then there are actually a lot of popular Oktoberfests in many countries that you can check out. These are usually family friendly and offer a lot of other forms of entertainment, like rides and shows.

6. Hit the TBR List
Nothing will say autumn quite like curling up with a good book and a cup of coffee or tea. This season, you might want to go through your To Be Read list in order to mark it off of your bucket list. If you don’t have a TBR list right now then now is the time to get one. You can find many suggestions for books to read based on your personality online, so check out some reading websites to see if you find anything you like. You might also want to check out books based on books that you liked previously. Without a doubt, you won’t have a hard time building up your list, which will give you plenty of things to do when you have plenty of time to hang out indoors.

7. Sleep Beneath the Stars
There is nothing like sleeping out beneath the stars when the air is nice and crisp out. Autumn can be one of the best times to go camping or simply to sleep out under the stars in your own backyard. The weather won’t be so cold that you’ll freeze, so you should be good just to use your own jackets and blankets to keep warm or even basic sleeping bags. There is actually a lot going on astronomically during the autumn months too. You might get a closer look at some of the planets in our solar system or new constellations. You can even check out where to look using your favorite astronomical websites or apps.

8. Help Someone Out
A lot of people don’t just want to do for themselves when it comes to their bucket list. So, if you want to mark something good off of your bucket list then you might want to try volunteering during the cold season. Autumn and winter tend to see a spike in homeless shelters, soup kitchens and other services. So, if you want to make a difference then this is the place to start. You can also donate food and water or simply give someone on the street a nice meal. There are other volunteer programs to check out too. For instance, you might consider Habitat for Humanity, which is still putting in a lot of work to get families in homes for the holidays. There are many things you can do to help others out too, so don’t hesitate. You don’t even have to branch out from your own inner circle as there is usually someone in need.

9. Experience Foliage Somewhere New
One of the best parts of autumn is seeing all of the foliage change colors. However, if you are witnessing the same foliage year after year then you might want to take a trip to see how the foliage looks in other places. This might be the perfect time for a weekend road trip, or a long day’s drive. There are many iconic places that you might want to check out, but it could be just as rewarding to hit the wide-open road and see where it takes you. You will be able to admire the beauty of the world around you. You may even find new places to vacation when you want a quick getaway from home.

10. Save for a Trip
If you don’t really have anything on your bucket list that you want to complete in the autumn or winter then you might want to use this time to save up for one of the bucket list items that isn’t on the frugal side of the spectrum. For instance, you might want to start up a swear jar. This will help you put money back while working on changing a bad habit. Another idea is to place change from transactions into a jar. You might want to switch to cash to complete this one, which could save you even more money. There are lots of ways to save though, including simply putting back money every week. No matter what you choose to do, it can help you mark off one of your buck list ideas faster than you expected.

Working on your bucket list should be a fun process, so don’t let the weather or the money stand in your way. These ten ideas should help you find the perfect way to work on your list without venturing too far from the comfort of your own home during the cold months.

It isn’t often that Friday the 13th lands on a day in October, but when it does many fans of horror and Halloween love to take it by storm. If you’re ready to have a blast this Friday the 13th, you might be wondering how you can do so without spending a fortune. This can be especially important with Halloween just around the corner, as costumes, candy and decor can really eat up a budget. Luckily, there’s lots of great things you can do to celebrate the rare occurrence. So, don’t fret your budget too much because you can really get a lot out of the holiday by spending very little.

1. Movie Marathon
One of the best ways to enjoy the holiday is to stay in for the night and enjoy a movie marathon. There’s a ton of movies to pick from too, which should meet your spooky criteria. Of course, you can always go for the movie series named after the date itself. If you don’t have a lot of movies that suit the category then you can always tune in to cable if you have it. A lot of channels love to follow the theme and play a marathon of movies to help people enjoy the occasion. If you don’t have cable there there’s still many rental ideas to choose from. Since the 13th happens to be on a Friday, you will probably only have the chance to binge watch three or four movies if you are working or in school. So renting shouldn’t cost you a fortune and can create an enjoyable experience you can share with friends and family or keep to yourself, if you’re feeling brave.

2. Listen to Music
Believe it or not, but there’s actually a lot of songs that are written about Friday the 13th or at least follow the theme of the day. If you find yourself particularly busy on the day or you don’t care for movies, then you might want to have a jam session. If you love to check out new music, then there’s a lot of Friday the 13th playlists to choose from. You might also consider doing a little research for yourself to see if you can find a few hidden gems on your own. This is a great way to enjoy a commute or have some fun while completing work or household chores.

3. Try Your Luck
Friday the 13th is considered to be an unlucky day. The fact that it is happening in October makes it even less desirable for some people. This means that a lot of people will back out of luck based games like gambling or even raffles. This might be your chance to win big though. So, instead of buying into the superstition of the date, you might want to try out a game or two. For instance, you can take a chance and buy a lotto ticket. If you go to a party hosting a raffle then you might want to indulge too. You never know, with less people willing to spend money on such a thing you may find yourself winning big. If you’re planning on gambling, now might be the time to do it too. Casinos won’t be as packed which will give you a good selection of slot machines and tables to work with. Even if you don’t win, you will still have a bit of fun and will take a stand against superstitions.

4. DIY Halloween Costume
Friday the 13th is just a little over two weeks away from Halloween. So, if you want to enjoy something spooky and fun for the day, it might be the perfect time to get started on your Halloween costume. There are a lot of great ideas out there that are really simple to complete and will allow you to have costumes for the whole family under budget. There have already been many ideas posted online, so you might start thinking about your favorite ideas now. If you don’t get around to making the costume on the 13th, you might still discuss what you would like to do and perhaps even collect the materials to make the costume. Once you have all of this planned out, everything else should fall into place, so you’ll be ready to Trick or Treating when the time comes.

5. Put Out Spooky Decor
If you’ve been putting off decorating for Halloween, now is the perfect time to do it. Since Halloween is only two weeks away, you won’t be so early that your neighbors will get bored of seeing your ghosts and goblins on display in the front yard. It also gives you the perfect excuse to embrace all things spooky. You might start by working with the items you already have, so you won’t feel tempted to go out and buy new things. Of course, if you are shy on a few things you might try to make them yourself before you go shopping. This will help save money and will even add some fun to your Friday the 13th celebration. For instance, if you’re lacking spider webs then look no further than some white yarn. This can be stretched across doors and windows to create life sized webs. Your kids might even love arranging spooky items in the web each day to keep the look fresh and exciting.

6. Check Out a Haunted House
There should be a few haunted houses popping up around your community. If not, you might want to check out other communities to see what options you have. Going to a haunted house can really get you in the spirit for the upcoming holidays, but also for the mood that Friday the 13th often brings. If you don’t have any haunted houses just yet, then look around for festivals. More often than not they will host a fun house that can serve as a similar experience. These are also a bit more family friendly if you have small children. Some farms will even turn their corn mazes into a scary experience for Friday the 13th, in order to bring in more crowds. So, if you can’t find anything in your region, think out of the box because there may be more things to check out than you think.

7. Scary Videogames
One of the best ways to scare yourself senseless is to pop in a scary videogame to help make the occasion seem real. There are lot of top names available that can leave you shaking in your boots this Friday the 13th. You might start by playing a game you already own so you won’t spend money. However, if you’re looking for something new you might try to rent instead of buying a game. This is especially convenient if you’re not a huge fan of the horror genre. One option you might consider is the games based off of the Friday the 13th movies. If you won’t want an entirely in-depth game then you can always check out some of the freebies online. This method of celebrating might fit your busy schedule the best and will give you a pretty good scare too.

8. Host a Campout
If you love to get the creeps then hosting a campout is one of the best options for you. You don’t even have to go far if you don’t want to. If you want to save money then the backyard can work wonders for you. However, if you’re looking for a real experience then you might check out creepy areas in your area and find out what the camping laws are. Make sure to pack snacks for your trip and items to build yourself a campfire. Of course, one of the most important aspects is to bring your best scary story game. There’s still time to look up stories to share if you aren’t ready to make up your own on the spot. You might find camping out on the 13th is your new favorite way to get creeped out and enjoy the occasion.

9. Calculate Dates
If you’re looking to kill a little time on the 13th, or you want to help your kids work on their math, then working to calculate the number of Friday the 13ths you’ll experience can be a lot of fun. If you aren’t ready to come up with an equation to do this, there are lots of websites that can help you out. Some will even explore the number of Friday the 13ths that happen in October. This can help everyone appreciate the special date even more. Plus, anything that makes math fun is always a plus when you’re trying to convince your children to learn the subject.

10. Throw a Party
Of course, one of the most popular things to do to celebrate the fun of Friday the 13th is to throw a party. You don’t have to go all out in order to do this though. For instance, you might want to invite guests over and have them bring a potluck dish and their own beverages. You might also ask people to bring specific items to make the party go smoother. A theme is always a great idea, so follow your gut. An early costume party can be fun and will allow people to wear old costumes or try their new ones on for size. You can also create an unlucky party theme. There are lots of ideas online to help guide you through the planning. Games and movies are always as easy options for these parties, so you don’t have to add any extra expenditures to your list.

It isn’t often that we get to enjoy a Friday the 13th in October. So, don’t let your budget hold you back when it comes to having fun. These ten ideas can help you have a good time without forcing you to spend money that is already dedicated to upcoming holiday activities.

Fire Prevention Week is October 8-14, which gives you plenty of time to have a little fun with this crucial week. This week is all about learning how to prevent fires, while also protecting yourself if there is a fire. This is a particularly crucial week for children who don’t yet know all of the rules regarding fires. However, it can also be a great week for adults to brush up on their knowledge and to support those who work to put out fires. Luckily, this isn’t an activity you will have to spend a lot of money on, as fire prevention is free and easy to understand. So, give these ten activities a try in order to get the most out of
Fire Prevention Week.

1. Check smoke alarms
One of the most important things you can do during this week is to go through your home and check your smoke alarms and other critical alarms in your home. You can easily check these devices by pushing a button and seeing if an alarm sounds. However, if you want to be extra careful then create smoke near the device and see if it goes off. If the device seems slow or doesn’t sound then you may want to replace it. Of course, you might also want to replace these devices every few years anyway to ensure absolute safety. During Fire Prevention Week you should make a point to swap out the batteries in all the smoke detectors in your home, as well as carbon monoxide alarms. You should also make sure your home has enough smoke detectors to ensure everyone’s safety.

2. Visit Fire Department
Nothing will inspire children to practice fire safety quite like a visit to the local fire department. Make sure you call ahead to see if it is okay to stop by though. By doing this, you will be able to meet real firemen who risk their lives daily to save lives and prevent fires from destroying buildings and habitats. Your local firemen might even show your children around the station, which can be even more exciting. Sometimes, during fire prevention week, the fire department will put on presentations to help children in the community understand the value of Stop, Drop and Roll as well as other common fire rules. Thus, you might want to check in to see if any of these presentations will suit your schedule. If you would like to say thank you, then whip up some baked goods or have the children create cards with special messages.

3. Fire Drill
Fire drills can be crucial in every home. If you don’t already have a plan then you might want to use Fire Prevention Week to come up with one. This is the perfect time to test out your fire drill too. Have the children run through the initial scenario first, so you will know that they understand the game plan. Then, mix things up a bit. One day, you can use yarn to create a wall of smoke that children will have to register into their escape plan. You can also move furniture to block certain escape routes. Another option is to make flames out of cardboard and construction paper. These will help your children come up with alternative routes and will give them a basic understanding that things don’t always go according to plan when there is a fire. You should also give them pointers about breathing and what to do if their clothing catches on fire. You might even make this into a game by timing their progress and having them work to beat their previous records.

4. Teach About Fire
One thing that really comes in handy when working through Fire Prevention Week is learning about various types of fires. This is important because you can’t put all fires out the same way. For instance, if a grease fire occurs in the kitchen then you won’t want your children trying to put it out with water. This will only feed the fire, which can lead to a huge problem. Showing children the different methods to deal with a fire is crucial. So, make flash cards, draw up a chart or simply quiz them until they have it memorized, because this information could one day save their lives. You can also come up with activities to do this. Of course, you should also talk about fire. For starters, how they begin, the colors of the fire, temperature and more. With knowledge comes power, especially when it comes to knowledge that can save a life.

5. Teach Safety Songs
It is hard to sit down with younger children and teach them the ins and outs of fire and how they should behave around it. One of the best ways to teach them is actually through song. You might hammer the message home if you can add in some dance moves too. A lot of songs already exist to teach about Stop, Drop and Roll and other fire safety procedures, so looking them up will be a breeze. You might even find videos online of the songs performed, which will help your children connect with the songs. If you are feeling creative then make up your songs and have a little fun with them. You might even ask the kids to pitch in. Having fun while learning will help the information stick in their minds.

6. Read About Safety
Reading is one of the best ways to help information stay in the mind. There are a wide variety of books that you can check out to help children learn about fire safety. Perhaps, you can even share a book a day during the week, so children will be exposed to a wide selection of books. There are books written for older children too, so the whole family can enjoy reading about the subject matter. If you’re curious about fire, then check out some of the books firemen must read before beginning their career. You might also want to look at tutorials for camp fires and other activities that use fire.

7. Watch Programs
Many TV stations do a good job of incorporating information into their daily programs. During Fire Prevention Week, you may be able to find documentaries on fires and advertisements encouraging people to be as safe as possible. More importantly, there will be specialized programs for children. PBS, to name just one channel, celebrates Fire Prevention Week with customized shows to teach children about fire. So, your child will be able to learn from their favorite characters. You can even download activities to go along with the specialized shows to help children further understand the importance of fire safety and how to help those who have been affected by fire.

8. Build a Campfire
You might not think that building a fire is the best way to celebrate Fire Prevention Week, but you might be surprised as to how much this can actually help. Building a fire will teacher children that it is okay to enjoy fires in a safe setting. Spending time near a fire will also show children the pain that a fire can cause. The heat radiating off of a fire is tolerable, but children will see how uncomfortable they feel after merely standing next to a fire. This will discourage them from playing with fire. Building a camp fire will also show children the proper way to put out a fire. This is crucial, especially in areas that can easily be caught on fire. Make sure there is not a burn ban in your area before you build your campfire though. Don’t forget to have some fun with it too, with campfire treats that will make everyone happy.

9. Put Away Fire Starters
Although your children might be right on track when it comes to fire safety, you should never leave out a fire starter in your home. This includes, matches, lighters, camping flints and more. Even if you trust your children, you never know what might be happen when you’re not directly supervising them. So, the best thing you can do is keep any fire starter in a safe place. A lock box can be one of the best places if you have children that like to climb and are naturally curious about things hidden away. However, if your child tends not to go looking for things, placing them in a hard to reach place is perfectly fine. Make sure you don’t leave them out by the grill as well. Some children might even feel courageous enough to light the fire themselves, so removing temptation is your best weapon against fires and potential injuries.

10. Trim the Yard
With autumn here, there are a lot of fire hazards to be found in your own yard. So, in order to celebrate Fire Prevention Week, you might want to head outside and take care of a few things. For instance, you will want to cut the grass down before the snow begins to fall. This will prevent brush fires that might occur on accident. You should also pick up the falling leaves as often as possible. Another major problem is dead trees or limbs that are too long. While you’re working, you might check the gutters too as dried debris can help fires spread. This is the perfect week to get started on your yards cleanup too, as the autumn weather isn’t at its peak yet.

Fire Prevention Week can be a lot of fun and incredibly informative for all ages. This week, you might want to check out these ten tips to see if you can spread some knowledge to your family members, while ensuring everyone in your household knows the fire safety rules. After the week is over, these tips should leave you feeling more secure.

If you’re in the mood to hit some sales, then Columbus Day is the last holiday to do so before we move into the exciting days just before Black Friday. Whether you celebrate Columbus Day or not, you won’t be able to turn down some of the deals this year. However, there are some things you may want to skip out on during this holiday too, as you’re certain to find better deals in just a few weeks. So, in order to guide you through the last big shopping day, here’s ten categories you should shop in if you want to maximize your holiday sale savings.

1. Jeans
Back to school sales are certainly long gone by now, but there’s still going to be a lot of jeans leftover for people to pick through. Since stores have so much leftover stock, Columbus Day is the perfect time to unload it before the holiday months begin. You will be able to find deals as high as 60% off jeans, especially when it comes to children’s sizes. These deals should help you prep your wardrobe for autumn and winter. There will also be big sales on some of the hottest denim on the market, so if you’re still rocking last year’s jeans, Columbus Day will be the perfect time to add a couple new pairs to your wardrobe.

2. Travel
Most people don’t plan vacations in October, but now might be the perfect time to do so. In fact, Columbus Day brings a lot of great deals on travel. You might be able to grab a quick weekend getaway trip or a longer trip at a fraction of the price that you would pay for a summer vacation. Now is also the perfect time to get in your holiday travel plans. Secure your plane tickets, book your hotels and even reserve a rental car if need be. Soon, the holiday season will make all of these elements of travel incredibly expensive. If you really want to enjoy some travel, then book a cruise during this month. You will enjoy huge savings and can look forward to a vacation that is out of this world. There are many new cruise lines departing early next year, so grab a spot now at a price that won’t harm our budget.

3. Accessories
If you love to look good then you’re sure to find something right up your alley during the Columbus Day sales. During this special day, you should be able to find a whole lot of deals on accessories. Hats might be one of the best things you can grab during this time. There should be a lot of summer hats available at a low price, but you also might want to look for winter hats too to help prepare your wardrobe for the upcoming months. Handbags, clutches and other clothing accessories will also be at a great price, which might even inspire you to stock up on accessories for holiday gifts. Jewelry and other accessories will also find a price cut, don’t forget to look for a few pieces to make your collection look great. Finally, shoes will also be a great price during this time. Everything from fashion pieces to running shoes should be the perfect buy during the holiday.

4. Mattresses
When it comes to holiday sales, mattresses are usually up front and center when it comes to a good deal. Columbus Day won’t be any different as you should see sales in stores and online for a wide variety of mattresses. Even some of the more modern memory foam mattresses should offer a big sale on top of online discounts, so make sure you don’t miss out. This is actually the last holiday of the year for incredible mattress deals, so if you’re in the market for something new, you might not hold your breath in hopes of finding something on Black Friday. The next major sale for mattresses won’t show up until Memorial Day, so don’t hold out if you don’t have to.

5. Outdoor supplies
With the weather cooling down, it makes perfect sense that stores will want to ditch all of their outdoor gear during the Columbus Day sale. If you are in the market for patio furniture, then start shopping now because you probably won’t be able to find these items in stores and marked at a decent price until spring returns. This is also the best time to buy a pool and pool supplies, so you’ll be all set for summer. Of course, you can also stock up on gear for sports like football, soccer and even sports that aren’t in season. Finally, you might want to grab any lawn equipment you need, as you won’t see many sales on it until the snow stops

6. Furniture
Furniture is another must when it comes to shopping on Columbus Day. This comes at the perfect time to give your home a little boost before you have company for the holidays. When it comes to furniture, it is hard to tell which store will concentrate on which area. Many stores might push beds around this time of the year to create a cozier appearance in the bedroom or guestroom. Whereas, other stores might have great sales on recliners, so you can stock up for the holidays. Other stores may push signature items like TV stands that dual as faux fire places to inspire shoppers to make their homes cozier for the holidays. The best thing you can do is pay attention to local ads or surf your favorite websites to see what your options will be.

7. Appliances
New appliances just dropped in many stores, which means there’s going to be a lot of sales around this time of the year. This is especially true when it comes to Columbus Day. You should see items up to 30 or 40% off, which can save you a lot of money. Another big thing around this holiday is bundle deals. This is perfect if you’re remodeling the whole kitchen or you want a washer and dryer bundle. Of course, you should shop around before you decide to make a purchase this holiday. Black Friday deals could still beat out these. So, if you’re not in a hurry you might want to take your chances and see what you can get after Thanksgiving.

8. Autumn Clothes
If you’ve been holding out on autumn fashions then you can finally rejoice. Columbus Day will see many sales on clothing, so make sure to shop around to see what you can find. These sales don’t specifically target autumn clothes so you can shop older fashions too. However, if you want to save on new things for this season then shopping now is a good plan. Black Friday typically isn’t the best for clothes shopping, so if you get this expenditure out of the way you’ll be set to purchase other items when Black Friday arrives. Many of the sales you will see will be online too. So, make sure you check out your favorite lines to see what the sales can afford you.

9. Photography Supplies
Since vacation season is pretty much over, many camera shops are willing to offer some pretty amazing sales on their supplies. Cannon is one of the most popular brands to slice prices on Columbus Day, so you might want to begin your search there. During the sales, you should be able to find a great deal on a camera, lenses and other accessories that you might need or want to suit your hobby or profession. Other brands will also be offering competitive prices, so shop around before the sale to get an idea of what you need and want. This sale comes at a great time as you will be able to preserve all of those holiday memories with your new camera. It will also prep you for next summer when you can’t find a good deal to save your life.

10. Home Improvement
Home improvement season is pretty much over. With the weather already becoming cold with high levels of moisture, you can pretty much bargain that most people aren’t going to want to work on a project. This makes it the perfect time to host a sale on home improvement items. One of the biggest sales will be on items like wallpaper and paint, because updating these aspects of the home won’t be popular. You will also be able to find deals on things like light fixtures and other small details that will make your home complete. You might also want to look for tools and others items you will need to complete home improvement projects as some stores may even include these items in their sales.

Columbus Day Sales will certainly bring you a lot of savings this year. As the last big sale of the season before the big sales begin, you’re sure to have fun while browsing for items to shop for. With a little pre-shopping and knowledge of what to look for, you should be able to find some amazing things on your shopping list at a fraction of the price.

National Get Organized Week is upon us, which can be a huge motivation for anyone looking to get the house in order before the snow begins to fall. With this amazing week dedicated to getting your home in tip top shape, you’re sure to find some inspiration in these ten tips. Best of all, you won’t have to spend a fortune on supplies to get you organized with these tips. Rather, you will be able to use items from your own home to cut down on the clutter and make things so much easier to find. So, don’t get flustered yet, as these ten ideas are sure to make Get Organized Week a little fun.

1. Shelves
When it comes to the home, shelves are probably the best thing you can do. It doesn’t matter if you don’t have books or a lot of space in your home, as shelving is the perfect way to ensure you can declutter and look organized for a very low price. If you don’t want to put a lot of elbow grease into this concept, then the best thing you can do is purchase the shelves. Usually, tall shelves from a department store like Walmart range around $30 and smaller shelves are a mere half the price. So, you can purchase a few without breaking the bank. You might also consider building your own shelves to help keep back the costs and to ensure they are sturdy enough to last for years. You shouldn’t disregard hanging shelves either. This can be perfect for nick-knacks and lighter books. Once you get your shelves up, use them for all sorts of things. You can even buy decorative bins to store your junk items without creating an eyesore.

2. Hang Things Up
When it comes to clutter, hanging things up can be one of your best defenses in getting rid of it. This is especially true when it comes to the kitchen. For instance, if you don’t have a lot of décor on the walls you might consider hanging up your pots and pans. Not only will it look rustic and chic, but it will also give you access to the items you need in a hurry. You might also consider hanging up some of your kitchen utensils, unless you have an abundance of them or don’t think they would look great on the wall. Another option is to hang up your mugs under the cabinets. This can be simply done with a small hook and will add a cute look that makes mornings a breeze. This method comes in handy in the garage too, as you can put things like shovels, hoes and even tools on the wall, as long as they are secured properly. Try to do the same in the home when you come across things that might look great hung up. You can even hang old toys from the ceiling to add a cute look to a child’s bedroom or playroom.

3. Control Cords
One of the biggest reasons why a space looks cluttered has to do with the visible cords. These are definitely an eyesore that is hard to control. If you have children then they may cause even more problems for you. So, this Get Organized Week, you might want to handle the cord issue once and for all. The first trick for this problem is to use a toilet roll. You can cut holes in a toilet roll to feed the cords through, which will prevent them from getting all tangled up. You can also wrap up the cords and hide them in a toilet roll to keep them from going all over the place. Best of all, you can paint the toilet roll to suit your own personal style. Another option is to use twist ties. This will allow you to get rid of some of the slack that the cords have, so they won’t hang all over the place. If you don’t like the unsightly look of the cords, then buy tape that pairs well with your work space, this can hide the appearance. You can also create a back board for your desk that will keep the cords out of your sight. This can be done with cardboard or old wood. You can even paint it to suit your needs.

4. Pantry
The pantry can be a place of nightmares when it comes to organizing. Often, things get shoved in, so you don’t know where anything is. This can cause cooking and cleaning to take even longer than it needs to. One of the first things you can do to ease this problem is grab some old sofa boxes. The twelve pack boxes should allow you to store your bulk cans in one area. This will allow you to grab what you need in mere seconds. You can even stack these boxes to take up even less space in your pantry. Spices are another big problem when it comes to the pantry. If you have a lot then it might be impossible to find anything you need. You can always place your spices in a shoe box or two and place labels on the top of them. If you don’t have a lot of spices, or you only frequently use a few of them then you can add a magnet to the back and place it on the side of the refrigerator. If you don’t like the way this looks, then add a magnet to an old baby food jar and transfer the spice there. You can even buy chalkboard paint to add some style to the jar and to make labeling a breeze. Another great option is to use cereal containers to stack your favorite breakfast supplies and snacks.

5. Freezer
If your freezer doesn’t have a lot of storage space then you’re probably in for a big headache. You can easily organize your freezer though, even if it doesn’t have the shelves you desire. One of the best options is to add a small curtain rod. You can find these at the dollar store as they are designed for bathroom and basement windows. This can easily be adjusted to the top of the freezer. From there, you can hang all of your food that comes in a bag. This is especially great for anyone that does food prepping. A quick way to add shelves into your freezer is to pick up some plate stands. These are designed for stacking plates in your shelf, but they’re perfect for allowing you to stack foods in the freezer without having to fear an avalanche every time you open the door.

6. Office/Craft Supplies
Office and craft supplies can take over a room quickly if your let them. Rather than buying storage for these items, it might be wise to take to your recycling bin to help keep your area neat and tidy. For instance, you can place a wide variety of supplies in oatmeal containers. These long cylinders are perfect for yarn, markers, sewing supplies and so much more. If you have lots of scrapbook paper, sticker sheets, patterns and other similar products then a cereal box can be your best friend. These will keep the items in order and flat, so they’ll look their best when it is time to use them. Mason jars are also the perfect storage item, especially if you don’t want the item easily accessible. Plus, you can later transform your mason jars into a craft when the mood strikes. Smaller items like sequences, beads, paperclips and more can be stored in a berry container for convenience.

7. Condense closet
Closets are one of the most disorganized places in a home, more often than not. There are a lot of simple tricks you can use to get your closet in order though. For starters, you can use the tabs off of your favorite canned drinks to stack your hangers. This will allow you to store three or more items in one spot, so your closet won’t be overflowing with clothing items. This especially comes in handy with pants. Your shoes can be stacked up to help prevent overflow too, but if you want the closet to look well put together then you might want to get a shoe organizer. These can be purchased for a fairly cheap price, but you can also build your own to save some money. There are lots of DIY ideas out there, so look around to see which suits your style. If you have a lot of linens in the closet then place them in a trash bag. You can suck the air out with a vacuum to help the items take up less space.

8. Toys
You have probably had a few moments of frustration over the toys in your home. Luckily, there’s a lot of great ways to work on organizing these items. One of the best bets is to invest in storage bins, but if you don’t want to spend money then consider using shoe boxes or wooden boxes that you build yourself. You can color coat these items to help children place specific toys in specific areas. Smaller items can be placed in oatmeal containers or even plastic bottles to help keep them in one space. If your child enjoys action figures or dolls like Barbie, then you might consider hanging a shoe organizer on the back of the door. These toys fit perfectly in the slots and will keep them off of the floor.

9. Invest in Storage Containers
One of the best ways to get your home in shape is to invest a little money in storage containers. These items can make the home look cleaner and will help keep all of your items organized. You can always save on your budget by buying one storage container at a time. This will also allow you to organize slowly, so the job isn’t too overwhelming. Luckily, most storage containers don’t cost a lot of money either. You can also purchase containers that fit into tight spaces. For instance, you can buy or make a container that fits next to the refrigerator, which doubles as a space for spices or canned goods. There are also bins that fit perfectly under couches and beds to store away items like magazines or clothing.

10. Minimize
Of course, one of the fastest ways to combat clutter and disorganization is to actually cut back on the items you have. You might want to take this week to go through your excess items and see if any of it actually brings you joy. If it doesn’t improve your life in one way or another then get rid of it. You can sell it, donate it or even toss it. When you get rid of your excess clutter, you might feel a lot better about your home’s environment. It will also help you organize the things you do have, so you can enjoy the space you live in even more.

National Get Organized Week is the perfect time to jump on the tasks you’ve been planning on working on for some time. This week will help you prep for the cold weather and ensure your home is functioning like a well-oiled machine. It may even help you find new hiding places for all of your kids’ holiday gifts.

October is an exciting time to go shopping. With Columbus Day Sales and autumn décor stocking the shelves, you’ll find this month brings plenty of temptation. However, if you’re trying to keep your budget in check, there are a few things that you won’t want to grab during the month of October. You might see slight discounts on some of these items, but none will compare to the amazing deals that you will see in the upcoming months. So, if you’re ready to enjoy this great month of shopping try to skip out on these ten items and you’re sure to save a bit of extra money.

1. Appliances
A lot of stores will tell you that now is the perfect time to shop for appliances. Both appliances big and small come out with the new editions this month, so you’ll see a lot of reduced prices on older models. You might even see a few sales on the new items when Columbus Day rolls around. However, you probably won’t see prices as low as you will on Black Friday and Cyber Monday. This is one of the best time to shop for any form of appliance as the prices will be set to move. You may even want to stock up on some smaller appliances to give away during the holidays, graduation season and weddings.

2. Candy
You are probably already seeing a ton of Halloween candy on the shelves in your favorite department stores. Although these prices look pretty good, particularly since they’re in bulk, you will find better deals on them soon enough. As a matter of fact, as soon as Halloween is over you will find the prices of the candy are slashed. The longer you wait to buy the candies the more you will save too as stores will want this item off of their shelves as soon as possible. If you live in an area that gets a lot of trick or treaters, then buying a bulk bag is your best option. However, if you’re shopping for yourself then wait to buy the candy of your dreams until the days following Halloween.

3. Electronics
October tends to be a popular period for new releases. It is pretty tempting to go out and buy a new item as soon as it hits the store, but this can be a bad call for your finances. As you know, Black Friday is just a few weeks away, so you might want to hold out until those deals arrive. You might consider at least waiting until you find out what some of the Black Friday deals are going to be. When it comes to items like TVs, laptops and consoles, you will certainly want to wait for these sales if you want to save a bundle. Of course, you will also have good luck on TVs in the month of January when the Super Bowl rolls around. Older Xbox Ones might also see reduced prices too, but you still may end up finding the best deal on the biggest shopping day of the year.

4. Toys
You might think that now is the best time to get a jump start on your holiday shopping for the kids in your life. However, if you can hold off on shopping for now you should. Toys usually are a higher price during this time, especially since many companies are releasing their hot toy list during the month of October. Since the list is coming out, many people want to flock to the stores so they don’t have to worry about missing out on the toy that their child wants. However, your best bet is to actually wait until December to shop for the toys you want. As long as you shop early enough, you shouldn’t have to worry about missing out on the item. If you do happen to miss out, then you will be surprised to find that many toys are discounted in January when a whole new line of toys come out.

5. Cleaning Gear
October might not seem like the season for cleaning, but a lot of people really love to give their home a good scrub down before the really cold months set in. If you’re in the market for items like a vacuum cleaner, steam cleaner and other important cleaning items then you might want to hold out until next month to get your heavy-duty cleaning finished. Usually, you can find these items at a great discount when the holiday sales begin. If you can hold off until Black Friday then you might be in store for even more savings than you can imagine. Of course, if you don’t really need a new cleaning item right now then try to hold off until the spring to buy your item. Spring cleaning brings lots of sales that are hard to resist.

6. Gift cards
The month of October really isn’t the best time to stock up on gift cards for the holiday season. There simply aren’t a whole lot of deals for gift cards during this time of the year. If you can hold out until November and December then you will find an assortment of good options when it comes to gift cards. For starters, many stores will offer free gift cards when you purchase a certain amount of items. Some will even offer a small gift card for purchasing gift cards which will give you more bank for your money. Many stores will even offer freebie when you buy a gift card from their store. For instance, some restaurants will give a free meal with the purchase of a gift card. Of course, if you are looking for gift cards for yourself then there are many websites that sell unused gift cards. These are usually best to check out after the holidays as many people sell their unwanted gift cards then.

7. Boots
If you love a good pair of boots then October simply isn’t the time to satisfy your urge. Of course, if you need the boots for work then you should also hold off if you possibly can. The month of November is one of the best times to grab a wide variety of boots. For instance, Justin Boots usually hosts a huge sale for Black Friday, which will allow you to pick out an assortment of fashion and work boots that will suit you all year long. If you don’t mind shopping for boots online then you should be able to find a whole lot of clearance boots from the summer months. These should still keep you warm in the winter and will protect your feet.

8. Tools
It’s about to be too cold to head outside and work with wood or other supplies. You might think that this is the perfect time to grab some tools to boost your collection or to purchase for the holiday months. However, prices tend to be a bi high during this month. If you want to shop for tools for the holiday then December is the best time to do it. There will be a lot of holiday gift sets for sale that should help satisfy lots of tool fanatics. You can also wait until the end of June when all of the Father’s Day items go one sale. With a little patience, you can stock your tool shed, which will make your budget a lot happier.

9. Perfume
Since the weather is beginning to cool down, you might feel like now is the perfect time to buy a perfume that suits the weather. However, your best option is to wait until November or December. During this time, a lot of stores will be releasing sets that will give you a lot more product for your money. These are also great gift options. The perfume collections will feature new products as well as old classics, which are perfect for everyone on your list. You may even find yourself a little something. With lotion, perfume and the other accessories that are added to these sets, you shouldn’t have to buy perfume for quite some time, which will save you even more money. If you’re not sure what you want in a perfume then there will also be a lot of great sample packs to choose from during this time, which might help you find the scent of your dreams.

10. Halloween decorations
It is very tempting to purchase all of the cool Halloween supplies that began to grace the shelves of local department stores in August. However, if you want to save some money then hold out as long as you can. All of these items, including lights and technological décor, will go on sale as soon as Halloween is over. You will find huge savings on these items that can be used to create the perfect haunted house next year. You might even be able to find amazing savings on some storage bins to help you properly store your items.

There are many exciting things to shop for in the month of October, but there are plenty of things you should avoid too. Luckily, if you have these ten items on your shopping list, you won’t have to wait long until you find the perfect price cut for you. With the busy shopping season coming up, you’re sure to be pleased with the savings on items you skipped this month.

It is finally time to welcome autumn to the year, which means lots of cozy nights and plenty of celebrations. The autumn equinox is September 22, so if you’re not sure what to do to celebrate the season, then these ten ideas are for you. Luckily, these tips won’t cost you a handful, so you can put back money for the upcoming spending season. With any luck, you will have a blast celebrating such a beautiful time, which will allow you to truly feel the magic of the season. Whether you’re celebrating the pagan holiday, or you just enjoy Mother Nature’s charm, these ten ideas will help you recover after such a hot summer.

1. Clean
Just like in the spring, it is a great idea to give your home a good cleaning at the beginning of autumn. Cleaning will help give you a chance to prep for the long winter weather, when you might not be able to do as much. You should go through your clothing, your garage, and anything else that might be not donated or tossed out before it is too difficult to do so. Donating winter clothes in the autumn can be crucial for those in need too, as it will give people time to pick up donations or purchase them from charity shops. Cleaning the home will also allow you to give the home a good scrub down before you have relatives in and out of the home for the holiday season. Of course, it is also great for making sure anything that needs maintenance can be handled before the snow sets in. This can save you a lot of money and stress, while making the cold months a lot easier to handle.

2. Visit a Farm
One of the best things about the autumn months is there are a lot of farms that open up to the public. Some farms do charge a small fee, while others only charge if you end up picking produce from their farm. A lot of the time farms will create a lot of fun activities to help lure people to their farm. For starters, you may be able to enjoy a corn maze, hay ride or even bouncy toys for the kids, when you visit one of these farms. Of course, a lot of the appeal is the produce you can gather. Autumn is the perfect time for pumpkins and apples, which is usually the most popular attractions. However, you can also find wide varieties of squash and many berries. You might even have the chance to get your picture taken in the pumpkin patch or orchards, which create great greeting cards.

3. Preserve Food
There are a lot of great foods about to become scarce, so you might want to stock up on them. Any summer fruits and vegetables that you can’t live without, but don’t want to pay the high price for should be bought in bulk. Once you have them, cut them up and freeze them. You can even precook them to make them a breeze to add to dinner on a busy day. You may also want to start grabbing autumn produce while it is cheap. You can begin to can these items to help them last all year long. It could even work out in your favor to start creating jams for holiday gifts, or preserving pie filling so you can bake your favorite items in no time at all. Pickling is also a lot of fun during this season, especially since you can still get asparagus, cucumbers and green beans at a cheap price.

4. Create Decor
With autumn comes a lot of holidays that will soon be barreling their way through your scheduling. This makes the autumn equinox the perfect time to hunker down and work on some decor for the home. You might want to start with autumn decor, as you can pick out leaves and other natural items cheaply to do so. There are also many crafts that you can do with pumpkins and other gourds. If you already have enough autumn decor to work with, then it is never too early to start on Halloween items. You can easily find crafting supplies for cheap to help make your home the scariest in the neighborhood. Apart from that, you can easily begin to work on Thanksgiving decor, particularly when it comes to a centerpiece for your table and other items used to make guests feel comfortable. If autumn decor isn’t your thing then use a rainy day to start on winter holiday decor. This can even give you time to get a jump start on holiday gifts.

5. Sign Up for Activities
Autumn is usually a time when most families have a lot of activities going on. With school back in session, it is easy to fall back into the swing of a busy schedule. So, sit down with the whole family and see what activities you will be doing during the season. There are many sports beginning during this period, particularly football, cheerleading and hockey. However, most schools will also offer other sports to give students more of a variety. Band, music lessons, art clubs and other academic clubs are also very popular. Some people would prefer to pour more work into their hobbies during this time period, so you might want to check out activities for these items. Other than that, there is always a lot of volunteer programs to sign up for in the autumn. Soup kitchens can always use a helping hand, but there are also programs like Habitat for Humanity that are working hard during this season to get people in homes before winter arrives. You can even keep things simple by signing up to run a Halloween costume drive for underprivileged kids. No matter what you choose, have fun with it.

6. Visit a Festival
One of the best things about autumn is the numerous festivals that pop up. There’s plenty dedicated to apples, corn and more. Of course, there are even festivals that are just for fun. You can catch live music at these as well as plenty of rides, games and seasonal foods. You may even find a maze to help enjoy yourself. Usually, these festivals don’t cost a lot of money and are family friendly so you can let every member of your family find something to keep them entertained. These festivals can even be holiday specific. For instance, you might find a spooky Halloween festival to suit the mood. Keep your eyes peeled for local announcements as this can help you plan accordingly.

7. Planting
A lot of people tend to associate planting with the spring and summer months, but autumn is also a great month to plant a wide variety of things. Autumn produce is in abundance during this time, so you may take pleasure in planting gourds, carrots, cabbage, broccoli and so much more. This will help you create your family’s menu based on the healthy and delicious foods you grow in the garden. Of course, you don’t have to plant for autumn alone. If you place bulbs or seedlings for trees in the ground down, you will certainly have a surprise in the spring without having to do a lot of work.

8. Fashion Show
It’s a given, when the weather cools down, it’s time to try on all of the clothes we’ve put away for the season. Usually, this chore isn’t a family favorite, but you can turn the tedious task into something fun. A fashion show is a great way to do this. Have everyone try on clothing from last year and show off what fits in a fun way. They don’t have to keep the show classic either. As a matter of fact, you can introduce a silly segment or a sophisticated walk to the mix. This will help everyone enjoy looking at their old clothes. It will also give kids a chance to check out all of the new hand-me-downs they will receive.

9. Redecorate
It is human nature to want to create a comfortable home that reflects what is happening around us. So, it might be time to pack away the beach friendly decor and bring out some warmer items. This can easily be accomplished without forcing you to spend a fortune though. For instance, you can frame pictures of beautiful fallen leaves to help create a rustic and creative vibe in the home. You might also consider swapping out living room pillows, dish towels and other items to reflect a warmer design. There’s plenty of ways to warm up your home, so browse around for ideas that strike your fancy and make your budget sing with happiness.

10. Enjoy the Kitchen
With autumn comes cooler temperatures, which often means using the heater to warm things up. You can cut down on your bill by spending more time in the kitchen though. For starters, you might consider baking a few new things. The delicious food will warm the heart of your family while the oven will warm up your home. You might also consider some delicious and heartier meals that may have been passed down from generation to generation. Of course, you can always channel that Pinterest list you’ve been building too. Autumn is the time for many holidays, so you may consider making holiday treats such as candy or caramel apples to liven up the taste buds of your family.

Autumn can be a great time to find celebrations everywhere you look. With the upcoming autumn equinox coming, you may want to look for one of these ten ways to help invite in the autumn season and say goodbye to summer. These tips will keep your budget secure, while allowing you and your loved ones to have some much-needed fun.

If you’re watching the changes that are happening in the world, then you may want to do your part to get keep things back on track. One of the ways that you can help is to work to save the bees. Bees have been villainized for many years, but truthfully, they are one of the major players in the health of the world. Without them, we can say goodbye to many plants and flowers, which can put an end to a wide variety of foods and lessen the oxygen in the air. There’s a lot of options to help bees thrive again though and many won’t cost a lot of money or even too much time. These ten ideas are a great way to give back to the bees that help keep our world working like a well-oiled machine, so you can make this National Bee Month one to talk about.

1. Plant Flowers
If you want to treat the bees right, one of the best things you can do is plant a lot of flowers on your property. Flowers attract bees because bees feed on their nectar. Thus, having a safe place to feed can ensure bees can boost their population once again. You might also find that as your flowers grow they may even spread to create a more beautiful setting for your home. There are several flowers that attract bees, so look around to see if you favor any of them. Most of these flowers will cost mere scents to grow from seeds, so you will get a whole lot out of the process for next to nothing out of pocket. Some bee friendly weeds, like dandelions look great in the yard and grow naturally. So, you can attract the bees without these without putting in any extra effort.

2. Consider a Water Fountain
Like any living creature, bees need a place to stop and drink while they do their work. Having a fountain can make your property a safe space for them if you have something like this. You don’t even have to have to water fountain specifically for bees. For instance, you can set out a decorative bird bath that will be inviting to the bees. However, this could compromise their safety if you do have birds that frequent it. Another option is to set up small areas within your garden. As long as the bees can have access to a small basin of water, you will be helping them out immensely. Doing this can also help out animals that might not have other sources of water, which is especially important in the summer months.

3. Ditch the Lawn
For some time now, many Americans have prided themselves on having a lawn. Usually, this consists of a large area of just grass in the front and/or back of the home. Although lawns add a tidy look to the home, you can do a whole lot more with your land that might show off your individuality and creativity. One of the worst things about lawns, apart from mowing them, is they are horrible for bees. There is actually nothing for a bee to feed on and water isn’t common unless the lawn has just been watered. This can cause bees to have to leave many areas, which means lots of flowers and other plants won’t get pollinated. This can be a major problem if this happens frequently. So, do yourself and the bees a favor by planting more than just grass in your front and backyard.

4. Skip Pesticides
Keeping a garden is great for bees. In fact, it is one of the best things you can do for the bees and your own personal health. However, using pesticides to keep bugs away from your garden won’t do you or your bee friends any favors. Obviously, pesticides are going to kill bees. They are also harmful to human beings. So, instead of grabbing the Round Up, try a more natural solution to the bugs that are giving your garden a hard time. For example, you can keep away snails with beer. Other bugs can be detoured with vinegar and other natural items commonly found in the home. Ask your favorite gardener for some tips or look online to see how you can target the pests in your garden naturally.

5. Buy Local/Raw Honey
Bees are mostly appreciated for one thing. That is, their honey. It’s hard to live without this sweet treat. So, if you’re a honey fan, do the bees in your neck of the woods a favor by buying local or raw honey. You can usually find this type of honey at farmer’s markets. However, some grocery stores will sell raw honey. The only downside to shopping for these items is they tend to cost a bit more than the honey you would buy in grocery stores. You have to consider what is in grocery store honey though. Usually, it is mixed with a variety of preservatives, artificial sweeteners and other fillers that stretch the honey further. This isn’t necessarily good for you. Local and raw honey is actually great for your body and can even be used to help with allergies. This honey makes a great alternative for sweeteners too, so you can cut back on other items that aren’t good for the body. When you purchase honey like this, you are usually supporting the hive itself, so bee keepers can do everything in their power to keep the bees going strong.

6. BEE-SAFE Certification
If you love to be a part of a group, then you might want to check out the BEE-Safe certification program. This program is simple to get into and basically asks you to take a pledge to help the bees. You will be given a list of ways you can help the bees and things that you should stop doing that cause bees harm. The best thing is, it doesn’t matter if you’re an individual, company or school, as the program is open to all. You may even want to see if your children’s school would like to join the program, so you can further the knowledge needed to help keep bees alive and thriving.

7. Sponsor a Hive
If you live in a city, can’t have a garden, or find it impossible to do your part, then you might want to consider sponsoring a hive. The honey business can be a pricey one, especially since many people don’t want to become beekeepers. By sponsoring a hive, you are working to help keep a hive thriving. This will allow beekeepers all over the country and maybe even the world to do their part to keep their small group of bees safe and surrounded by the things they need to pollinate and create honey. Sponsoring a hive doesn’t take a lot of money either. There are many programs that do this too, so you might want to do a little research to see which program suits you.

8. Shop Wisely
In this day and age, being a consumer can be pretty tough. There are so many items that we are supposed to avoid if we want to do our part to end child labor, pollution and other major ethic issues. So, one of the best things we can do is educate ourselves to know which companies do good in the world. There are actually quite a few that work to help the bees. Burt’s Bee for instance is a great natural company that keeps bees. They produce everything from soaps to clothing. One of their most popular items is lip balm which is made from beeswax. Cheerios is another widely popular company that sells a wide variety of cereal. The best thing about Cheerios is they help keep you healthy and full, so you can get more than your money’s worth. There are many other companies out there that work to help bees safely complete their important work.

9. Have Your Own Hive
If you have your own land and would like to keep your own bees then you might want to look into starting your own hive. There are actually courses you can take to learn how to start and care for your own bee hive. Of course, this is one of the priciest ways to help the bees. You will need plenty of special equipment to take care of them and to protect yourself from any potential stings. Courses might also take a bit of money. However, if you’re willing to put in the money and the work then this can be a very valuable experience. You may even be able to make a profit from your homegrown honey or use the wax for crafts you can sell. Of course, make sure to keep in mind your city’s regulations and your neighbors before you begin on this investment.

10. Educate Yourself
One of the most important things you can do to help the bees is educate yourself. Knowing about bees and the myths that surround them can help you set the records straight when you have people trying to kill bees because of these myths. It will also give you the knowledge you need to protect them. Understanding how to preserve a habitat for bees and how to protect them is crucial in the upcoming years. As bees begin to die out, the world as we know it will shortly follow. So, look up as much as you can and share the knowledge. There are a lot of wonderful documentariesto watch on the subject, so have fun becoming a bee expert!

Keeping the bees safe is mandatory for the survival of the world. So, this National Bee Month do your part to help the bee population grow back to a healthy number. With a little extra work from everyone, we can help others understand that having bees is something we need to maintain our beautiful planet.

If you’re most of the United States, you probably had a scare a few days ago that left you wondering how you can protect yourself in a time with so many hackers and leaked information. There are a lot of expensive options to remedy this problem, but there are also a lot of cheap options too. You don’t have to feel pressured into signing up for pricey services just to put your mind at ease though. These ten options should help you feel more satisfied with your personal security, so you can sweat a little less over the Equifax breach or anything else that comes along. With any luck, you’ll feel more empowered over your information.

1. Keep Track of Spending
One of the most important things you can do to protect yourself when there is a breach, or even when there is not, is to keep track of the money you spend. Knowing what you are putting out into the world will help you know if someone has been spending your hard-earned money. You may only notice a small charge at first, as some people love to test the waters before spending other’s money. If you let this slip then it could escalate to huge charges. So, monitor your spending carefully and contact your bank if you see anything fishy on your account. Most banks will allow you to put in a dispute, so you can get your money back and put an end to the fraudulent charges. You may even help them find the person who is stealing from others.

2. Bank Protection
Your bank can be a huge asset when it comes to protecting you from people who want to steal your money and your identity. If you have a debit card or a credit card through your bank then make sure you know their policies for fraudulent charges. Most banks offer this as a free service and will even launch an investigation when something goes wrong. Other banks will still offer the service at a reasonable price. Your bank can also offer a wide variety of other services. For instance, if they feel like you aren’t the person spending your money, then they can instantly freeze your card to help stop a criminal in their tracks. This will prevent you from the hassle of putting in claims to have your money returned. It will also immediately provide you with a different card, so you can carry on using your money. This will force the old card to pop up as stolen, which will help lead officials to the person of interest. Many banks offer even more services, so make sure to ask to see what you qualify for.

3. Credit Monitoring
These days, most people subscribe to some form of credit monitoring, which can be a huge asset when it comes to monitoring your personal information. Some websites will charge you to keep track of your credit, but there are many websites that will do it for nothing. It is important to do some research on these websites though, before you put in your social security number. Monitoring your credit can be the first defense when it comes to stolen information. Your credit will take a hit if any new credit cards are opened as well as any other line of credit. You will also be able to find out if you are defaulting on lines of credit that you might not know about. This will help you take further steps to build you credit back up and stop those who are using your information.

4. Minimize Credit Card Use
Credit cards are the perfect asset when an emergency arises. However, you don’t need to have them on you at all times. Carrying around all of your credit cards makes it physically possible for thieves to take off with your information in a hurry. If you lose your wallet or if a pick pocket takes off with it, then you will probably have hours before you realize your cards are compromised. A lot of damage can be done in this time. By leaving the cards at home, you won’t put yourself at risk. If you do need a credit card then only take one with you to eliminate the number of cards you have to deal with. The same can be said when it comes to online shopping. Don’t save your cards on websites as all a thief needs to do is hack your account to get access to your numbers and to easily go on a shopping spree.

5. Freeze Credit
The moment that you feel your card has been compromised, it is important to hop on the phone and freeze your account. This will stop anyone from making any charges that aren’t authorized by you. Freezing your card is the best thing to do if your card goes missing or you feel someone may have your card numbers. This is especially important with so many phone scams that can trick you into believing your giving your number to a trusted source. By freezing your card, you’re saving your credit and working towards preventing identity theft. Most banks and companies won’t charge you to free your card, so make sure you do it as soon as possible if you feel you need to.

6. Ditch the Signature
One of the best things you can do is not sign the back of your credit and debit cards. Places of business are not supposed to process your card without seeing a form of signature. So, by leaving it blank you are forcing them to double check the card before they put through the transaction. You can also write SEE ID on the signature panel, so you know you’re being checked for ID every time you use your card. Although this may be inconvenient, it can stop a thief in their tracks. It will also prevent your signature from being stolen by thieves who may use it to try to sign other things in order to use more of your credit line.

7. Shred Documents
Although cyber crime is one of the biggest stressors when it comes to theft, there are still old fashioned thieves who aren’t afraid to go through your trash. So, it is important that you shred the documents you throw in the trash or recycle. A shredder doesn’t cost a lot of money and can save you thousands in the long run. It is important to shred any document that has financial information on it, particularly when it comes to your bank account or credit card account numbers. You shouldn’t take any chances with letting people learn your name and address too. Luckily, shredding only takes a few seconds to do and will secure your personal information every time you empty the shredding bin.

8. Password Everything
If you haven’t already, make sure you add a password to anything that can possibly have one. Everything from your phone, computer to accounts on websites should be clad with a password that will leave even your closest friends and family stumped. These days, passwords need to be created with a mixture of capital and lowercase letters, as well as numbers and symbols. You should change your password frequently and never leave it written down somewhere where someone can find it. You should also never save your passwords in word documents on your computer or phone. Try not to save passwords on websites either as this can give people access to your accounts if they enter your phone or computer.

9. Be Inquisitive
You can’t simply trust a phone call or email anymore, especially when someone is inquiring about your personal information. You should always be inquisitive with anyone who is trying to assist you with an account. For starters, you should never get a phone call or email asking for your full social security number. If the person on the line does this immediately hang up the phone. If someone is curious about your account details then ask if you can call them back on their extension. If they do not allow you to then hang up. If they do give you a number, run it through a search engine and check it out on the company’s official website. If the number pops up as a scam or doesn’t match with the company’s number then don’t give them the time of day. Calls made to you are especially dangerous, so don’t be caught off guard if someone calls you with bad news about your account. Simply make sure to ask questions and be alert. The same can be said of emails. Companies should never ask for personal information via an email. You will also never see an email from an official company with a link in it. Most companies now have advanced emails, which offer html coding to ensure you can get the information you need. You can always double check an email address to make sure it is coming from the correct company.

10. Know Rights
With the recent Equifax breach, you may be wondering what your actual rights are when something like this happens. Most people quickly sign up for anything the company tells them to in order to help safeguard their information. This can be a huge problem though as these companies are often trying to keep themselves out of as much trouble as possible. For instance, the recent breach led people to sign up for monitoring which takes the company off of the hook. So, before you sign up for anything designed to help you with identity and credit, make sure you completely read and understand the Terms of Service.

Keeping yourself safe in a digital world can be tough. These ten tips should give you a jump start on monitoring your credit and identity just in case someone has access to your information. With any luck, you’ll never have to deal with a problem, but if you do these steps should help you be prepared.

Over the last few weeks, the world has experienced a lot of natural disasters that have left many devastated. From fires in the west to flooding in the east, there seems to be so much going on that it is hard for relief workers to catch up. Even abroad, there have been record breaking floods that have left thousands homeless. If you are looking for ways to help out with this terrible situation, but you’re on a budget, then you might not know where to even start. There’s actually quite a few things you can do that won’t leave you hurting, but will still help those in need. So, you don’t have to sit idly by if you’re not sure what to do, because these ten tips will help guide you to make a difference.

1. Volunteer
One of the best ways to make a difference in the world is to volunteer. If you live close to the fires and flooding then this is a lot easier to do. Try passing out water, feeding stray animals or even passing out some of your old clothes to victims. You can also join volunteer groups if you want to do harder tasks, like rescuing people that are stranded. Try not to put yourself into danger unless you are with a certified group, as they will have the know how to keep you safe. Some groups like FEMA are taking as many volunteers as they can find to help out with relief efforts. You might also want to volunteer at a hospital or animal shelter to help the overburdened staff. No matter what you do, make sure you follow all the safety guidelines as many people have already lost their lives while helping out others.

2. Go Through Closets
There’s no doubt about it, most of us have an abundance of items that others could use right now. Some people have lost all of their worldly possessions, so helping them out with some clothes is going to be a great way to make a difference. Go through your closet and get rid of clothes you don’t wear and that don’t fit. You might even throw in some extras just to help out more people. The clothes are going to be the biggest necessity now. However, if you want to go through your garage and find items that aren’t used, they will come in handy later. People will need appliances, tools, storage bins and more to help rebuild the life they once had. These donations can be given to special organizations that will transport them. You can also give them to local charities that plan on taking donations to affected areas.

3. Purchase Food and Water
It doesn’t matter what type of disaster you’re providing relief for, this can be one of the most important things to offer to victims. Most water supplies will be contaminated from a disaster, so thousands of people will go without clean drinking water for days to weeks. This is incredibly dangerous, which is why it is important that people send bottled water to the location to help keep people hydrated and alive. Usually, people will stock up on as much water as possible, but stores won’t carry near the supply that they will need. This often causes many to go without. Food is another important thing to donate. Canned goods are definitely a must, especially when relief work has begun and people are making their way back into their homes. However, during the initial emergency many relief groups were requesting handheld foods like granola bars to help keep people going in the shelters.

4. Extend Invitations
Another important option is to help out those in your inner circle. If you have family, extended relatives, friends or even just classmates in the danger zone, make sure to extend an invitation to your home. Some people don’t evacuate an area because they feel as if they have no place to go. With so many people in the country, it would be easy to take in those that you know to help relieve the population of the shelters set up. Of course, if you’re not comfortable with asking some people don’t. If you’re worried about space, there’s lots of great ways to save on space in the home while fitting in more people. Chances are, you won’t be hosting for long.

5. Host a Fundraiser
You don’t have to give away your own money to make a difference, especially if you don’t have a lot to spare. One way to help those in need is to work up a fundraiser. You can ask schools or businesses to help out too, which should help you get more of a turn out. A fundraiser can be a variety of things. You can set up games that people pay to play. Or, you can ask people to donate used goods for you to raffle off or hold an auction. The money you earn from these can all go to charity or directly to a family in need. There’s an abundance of fundraiser ideas to work with, so look around and see what suits your needs and planning abilities. Your community should be able to come up with a few options too, so make sure to work as a leader to help make your town a big help to those in need.

6. Give Blood
Whenever there is an emergency, one of the first things you can do to help out is head to your local hospital and donate blood. Often, there are so many injuries that hospitals run out of a blood supply and have to quickly have more flown in. To have the blood ready to go will help save more lives than you can imagine. Your local hospital should help you find the proper place to donate your blood, so you shouldn’t have to go too far. You may even get paid for your efforts, depending on where you live. Some blood types are needed more than others, so you might want to check into this to see if your blood type is frequently needed. Of course, you don’t have to wait on an emergency to occur to donate your blood. Blood supplies are needed on a daily basis, so offering yours on a regular schedule can help save a lot of lives over time.

7. Be Prepared
Of course, if you are in the wake of a storm or you may be hit by a storm or its aftermath in the future, the best thing you can do is prepare yourself. Make sure you have a good food and water supply well before an announcement comes that you will need to prep. By that point, everyone else will be at the store and the supply may not be there. You will also want to have a proper first aid kit handy. Generators can be very useful in a storm too. You should also keep your windows boarded up if there is going to be strong winds. Having your family prepped and ready for the action will allow you to help out others later on. Whether it’s helping out with food or water or allowing you to clean up the neighborhood, your prepping abilities will take you far.

8. Adopt a Pet
Unfortunately, animals are heavily affected by storms and other disasters. Many have been left homeless or taken from their previous owners. Numerous families left their pets behind during the storm, which means animal shelters are filling up fast as people swoop in to rescue them from sudden death. Of course, there are also many stray animals that didn’t have a home to seek refuge in during the storm. All of these pets will need a loving home and fast. If you can, put in to adopt a pet from this area so you can provide some relief to the shelters. Many shelters will more than likely waive the adoption fee if you can pick the animal up. You might also consider bringing a bag of pet food to help out the other animals while they look for new homes too. If you can’t adopt, then you might want to offer to foster these pets until they can find their owners or a new home. This will allow them a safe environment that can help relieve their stress from the disaster they just faced.

9. Donate Money
Another way people like to help out is to donate money. You don’t have to give a lot to make a difference as even chunk change adds up if enough people offer it. Many stores will offer you the ability to donate a dollar or more when you make a purchase through them. Of course, you will also see popular websites asking for donations. You should be careful where you donate your money to though. Some charities only use a fraction of the money you give to help others, while the rest of the money goes to pay for high salaried CEOs. There are lots of great websites that can help direct to you to an appropriate charity, so you’ll know your money is going to a good place.

10. Listen
If you’re not able to help in these ways, you may use your ability to listen to help. Try opening up to family and friends who may have experienced the disaster. This will help them vent so they can work on the healing process faster. If you would like to make an even bigger difference then join a help line. There are websites online dedicated to helping those who are having trouble. You can work to help people find the assistance they need or simply listen to their stories. There are also phone lines dedicated to helping people out. So, if you’re a good listener, you may find your best asset is to work with those who need to get their stories off of their chests.

It is hard to see people suffering around the world. Luckily, there is many things we can do to help them out when crisis strike. These last few weeks have been frightening for many onlookers, but devastating to those experiencing such a tragedy. So, if you’re looking to lend a helping hand, you may want to try these frugal methods.

Grandparents play a major role in most people’s lives, which is why it is important to make them feel special. With Grandparents Day occurring on September 10, you might want to take some time to make your grandparents’ day or even week extra special. You don’t have to spend a small fortune to do this either. Your grandparents are certain to be pleased with many things that don’t require you to spend your hard earned money. So, whether you’re trying to please your own grandparents or helping your children please theirs’, these ten tips are sure to help you find frugal methods to do so.

1. Plan a Visit
If there is one thing that always brings a smile to your grandparents’ faces, it’s probably a visit that they didn’t have to ask for. Often, grandparents get overlooked and spend a lot of time alone, so a visit is just the ticket to show your appreciation to them. If your grandparents still live on their own then drop by to say hello and catch them up on your life. You might even do a few chores while you stop by. If they are living in a nursing home, then make sure to take some time to see them during visiting hours. You might also bring them something special to help brighten their room. If you can, vow to visit more often, so they don’t have to feel as lonely and they will know that you care about them.

2. Make Lunch
Feeding someone you care about is a great way to brighten their day and show them how much you love them. So, you might want to make a plan to do this for Grandparent’s Day. If you’re feeling ambitious, you might want to recreate one of the meals that you remember your grandparents making you in childhood. This will show them that you have fond memories of their part in your life. You can also find out their favorite foods and make a few of them. If you’re not much of a chef then pick up their favorite and set it up nice on the table, so you can share a family meal together.

3. Scrapbook
Most grandparents love looking at photos of their loved ones. In order to make their day special, you might want to show off some scrapbooking skills. Try to gather up photos from all of your family to help make the book more complete. Your grandparents will love seeing the memories you created with them while watching everyone grow up through the pictures. You can find cheap scrapbooking papers at most hobby stores. If you use a coupon you can save even more money on the project. Try not to use original pictures though as you will probably end up cutting into them. Instead, create cheap prints at your favorite department store or online.

4. DIY Handprints
If you have little ones in the home then you may want to make your grandparents an extra special treat. Creating handprint crafts is fairly simple and incredibly inexpensive. You can use your imagination for this craft too. If you’re on a tight budget then simply make a card using simple printer paper and washable paint. Children can turn their handprints into butterflies, dinosaurs or anything else that strikes their fancy. If you have old playdough in the home then you can press this into a flat shape and then have the child leave their handprint in it. After leaving it to dry, you should have a cute craft your grandparents will love. Of course, you can also buy kits that do the same thing, if you want to spend a little money. Although Christmas is some time away, you can create the perfect gift by having your children place their handprint on the ornament. You can decorate it as snowmen or simply leave the ornament as is. There’s many other ideas for this craft, so have a little fun with it as your grandparents are sure to love anything you come up with.

5. Memory Book
Grandparents love to hear stories from their grandchildren’s childhoods, particularly if they involve special memories they shared with them. So, this might be a gift that is right up your alley. You can start with a book that has a simple binding, which is a cinch to make yourself. Then add a wide variety of colorful pages. On each page, write down a memory that you are especially fond of. You can even add an illustration or a picture from the event. If you have siblings and/or cousins then you might ask them to contribute to. With a little effort, you can make your grandparents a gift that they will cherish for years to come. This book can also help fight Alzheimer’s disease, which can make it a rewarding gift to the whole family.

6. Treasure Box
If you want to take your gift up a level, then you can always create a treasure box for your grandparents. You can fill this box with anything from your childhood that reminds you of your grandparents. This can be trinkets that your grandparents might have given you, or even items you might have picked up from an event you went to with them. This can include anything from a rock to a crushed flower. You might also add in things that remind you of your grandparents. For instance, soaps that smell like your grandparents or even fabrics. This box will show them how you feel about them and will allow you to cherish the memories they gave you even more. Make sure to attach a small story to each piece though, so they can share in the sentiment.

7. Help Them Out
There’s no doubt about it, your grandparents could probably use some help around the house. This might be the perfect time to help them out. Find out what they need done ahead of time and plan the day to get as much done as possible. If you can, go back and finish up the rest. Try to do the jobs that will be tougher on them first. For instance, you may want to mow the lawn, clean the gutters or work on any other chore that requires endurance and strength. Of course, you can also do the tedious chores like vacuuming, dishes and laundry to ensure that they get a well deserved break.

8. Photography
Another great way to surprise your grandparents and show them you care is to offer them photo updates of the family. If you can, get everyone together and use your photography skills to take an update photo of everyone in the family. Try to get group shots of individual families, siblings, cousins and more. Then have the photos developed and placed in a book for your grandparents to admire. If you really want to impress them, then have some of the photos framed so they can update their photo walls. This is sure to bring a smile to their face and will allow them to brag to all of their friends about their growing family.

9. Card
If you like to keep things simple then you can always get your grandparents a card. This is a great gift if you live some distance from your grandparents too. You can easily make your own card to show off your creativity. This is especially great if you have children that want to show their grandparents some love. Of course, they also make a wide assortment of cards to choose from. You should be able to find the perfect card to match your grandparents’ personalities. Make sure to write a special message in the card to help them feel even more special. Of course, you might follow of the card with a phone call.

10. Award/Certificate
You know your grandparents are clearly the best in the world, so make sure they have something telling them they are. One of the ways to do this is to print out a special certificate with your grandparents’ details on it. To make the gift even more special place it in a frame and wrap it up for them. They will certainly be surprised to see such an amazing award in their honor. If you have children then they may want to make their grandparents a DIY trophy. This can easily be cut out of cardboard and decorated to suit their creativity. This is certain to please any grandparent and will make Grandparents’ Day a Success.

Grandparents play such an important role in childhood and sometimes even adulthood. These ten ideas will help you treat your grandparents to something special without breaking your bank. With these ideas, the smile on your grandparents’ faces is sure to make you feel even more grateful for them.